Genetic Variation in Wood Mechanical Properties Among Eucalyptus Clones

Eucalyptus spp. is considered as major commercial fast-growing pulp-wood species of Gujarat. Farmers of this region are keen interested in cultivation of this species. Therefore, study was carried out in the campus of Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat to evaluate eighteen different high yielding clones of Eucalyptus for its yield and strength properties. The trial was established in randomized block design with three replications and planted at 2 × 2m spacing. At the age of four years, trees were selected and harvested for recording wood mechanical properties such as compressive strength, tensile strength and static bending (MoE and MoR) to understand the suitability of wood for different end uses including pole. Result shows that the compressive strength, MoE and MoR varied significantly among 18 clones. Further, the basic density of wood had positive correlation with MoE (r=0.561) and MoR (r=0.571). Among 18 Eucalyptus clones, EC-12>EC-8>EC-4>EC-5>EC-11 performed superior in terms of mechanical strength, hence, these clones are suggested for pole to be utilized in various structural applications. Among 18 Eucalyptus clones, EC-12>EC-8>EC-4>EC-5>EC-11 performed superior in terms of mechanical strength, hence, these clones are suggested for pole to be utilized in various structural applications.