Intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting pollination and fruit productivity in teak (Tectona grandis Linn.f.)

The intrinsic and extrinsic factors controlling pollination and fruit productivity in teak (Tectona grandis Linn.f.) have been studied in detail in Kerala, India. Though clonal seed orchard establishment has progressed very well in the country, low fruit productivity has hampered the teak improvement programmes to a great extent. The field studies as well as laboratory experiments led to the conclusions that inadequate pollinator activity, low pollen-ovule ratio, self-incompatibility and fruit abortion due to dominance effect of floral and fungal infection are the main causes for low fruit productivity in teak.