The Silviculture of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) in Hungary: a Review

Abstract

Background and purpose: Black locust (Robinia pseu- doacacia L.) was the first forest tree species intro- duced and acclimated from North America to Europe at the beginning of the 17th century. Although na- tive of North America, black locust is now natural- ized and widely planted throughout the world from temperate to subtropical areas. In Hungary, this spe- cies has played a role of great importance in the for- est management, covering approximately 23% of the forested area and providing about 19% of the annual timber output of the country. Due to the increasing interest in black locust growing in many countries, this study has been compiled with the aim of giving a summary on the basis of research and improvement connected with the species over the past decades. Material and methods: Black locust forests in Hun- gary have been established on good as well as on medium and poor quality sites. Establishment of black locust stands producing timber of good qual- ity is possible only on sites with adequate moisture and well-aerated and preferably light soils, rich in nu- trients and humus. Black locust forests on medium and poor quality sites are utilized for the production of fuel wood, fodder, poles and props, as well as for honey production, soil protection and environmental improvement. Results and conclusion: Hungary has got much expe- rience in black locust growing, as it has been grown for more than 250 years in the country. It is a fast growing, nitrogen fixing, site tolerant, excellent cop- picing species with frequent and abundant seed pro- duction and relatively high yielding potential. It has a durable and high quality wood, which is used for many purposes. Being aware of the importance of black locust, forest research in Hungary has been en- gaged in resolving various problems of black locust management for a long time, and a lot of research re- sults have already been implemented in the practice. Keywords: black locust (Robinia pseudoacaia L.), clone selection, stand establishment, tending opera- tions and yield; dendromass production, diseases