Effect of Root Pruning and Nitrogen Application on Growth Performance of Celtis australis L. Seedlings in Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand

The present study was conducted at College of Forestry, Ranichauri – Tehri Garhwal (UK) to assess the effect of root pruning and nitrogen application on the growth performance of Celtis australis seedlings. The seedlings roots were pruned at 0, 6 and 12 cm from the collar region and nitrogen was applied @ 0, 50, 100 and 150 Kg ha^-1. The growth performance, physiological and nutrient attributes viz. shoot length, root length, collar diameter, number of leaves per plant, dry weight of shoot, root and leaves, survival percent, white root regeneration, chlorophyll content and NPK content and uptake of Celtis australis seedlings were significantly enhanced with root pruning and nitrogen application. The root pruned at 12 cm from collar region and application of nitrogen @ 100 Kg ha^-1 gave the best results for growth of C. australis seedlings. Whereas, the seedlings of control treatments of both the factors showed the least values for growth and physiological attributes.