Potencial produtivo de Khaya grandifoliola e K. senegalensis na microrregião de Uberlândia

Abstract

African mahogany (Khaya spp.) is valued for its high-quality wood, used in various applications such as carpentry, woodworking, furniture, construction, musical instruments, crafts, and charcoal production. The cultivation of mahogany has been expanding in various regions of the country. Besides the commercial value of the wood, this species is employed for shading in intercropping systems and for roadside landscaping, contributing to stabilizing riverbanks. Well-drained and highly fertile soils are preferred for successful planting. This research evaluated the impact of factors such as soil fertility on the development of African mahogany plantations in the microregion of Uberlândia. For this purpose, soil samples were collected in commercial cultivation areas of the region's K. grandifoliola and K. senegalensis species, with trees at least ten years old. Plant growth was estimated by measuring the diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height at each location. The results were analyzed using mathematical models, considering both the growth and yield model and the stand-level model, correlating them with soil fertility variables. The study demonstrates that, although both species of African mahogany can adapt to the region's conditions, K. grandifoliola shows superior growth potential in environments with high soil nutrition, highlighting the importance of proper soil management to maximize growth and productivity of these species in cultivation areas. This information can potentially improve African mahogany management in the region, increasing efficiency and profitability in the long term. Ultimately, the study seeks to understand the ideal conditions for cultivating African mahogany in the region, contributing to sustainability and success of this forestry industry in the regional agricultural market.