Perception on the Constraints to Propagation of Iroko (Milicia excelsa) (WELW) C.C. BERG in South West Nigeria

Abstract

The problem of population growth, development and economic pressure has resulted in a high rate of deforestation of the country's natural resource. The rate of disappearance of Milicia excelsa in the forests is alarming with West Africa being the hardest hit by the trend. Milicia suffers heavy exploitation due to its wood quality but they are not replaced for sustainability. A survey was conducted in five states of South West Nigeria (Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti) to assess the perceptions of some communities on the problems associated with propagation of Milicia excelsa. A structured questionnaire was administered to the 125 respondents randomly selected from the five states of the study area. Eighty percent (80%) of respondents do not plant Milicia species because of slow growth (35.2%), bush burning (10.4%), religious beliefs (8.8%) and lack of seeds (45.6%). Awareness of Iroko gall bug (Phytolyma lata) as major constraints to propagation of Milicia excelsa was low (49.6%). There was a significant positive correlation (p<0.01) between the states and people's belief about Milicia excelsa. However, negative correlation was found between the states and awareness of P. lata as major constraints. Therefore, there is need to encourage the communities to propagate M. excelsa through agro forestry by providing them with planting materials (seed) and training on the available control measures for P. lata infestation on Milicia.

Stem cutting size influence on sprouting and survival of stem cuttings of African teak (Milicia excelsa (Welw.) in Kenya

“…Earlier studies from seedling screening experiments suggest that pest-resistant genotypes may exist in wild populations, according to research done in 1996 at the Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FORIG), which aimed to produce pest-resistant planting stock through a genetic improvement program (Ugwu and Omoloye, 2015). Vegetative propagation techniques are necessary to replicate genotypes that exhibit pest resistance.…”

“…Milicia excelsa can be propagated through seedlings and wildings, although their seeds are susceptible to pest attacks. On the other hand, suckers are also produced which can be used in its propagation (Ugwu and Omoloye, 2015).…”

In vitro shoot regeneration of Milicia excelsa (Welw.) C.C. Berg

“…It is dispersed across tropical Africa and its range extends from Guinea-Bissau in the West to Mozambique in the East (Orwa et al 2009). It is an important source of commercial timber and primarily gotten from natural forests Omoloye, 2015). Its wood is used for tanks and barrels, sliced veneer, construction works, shipbuilding, framework, trucks and indoor joinery.…”