Dendrometric analysis of early development of Eucalyptus urophylla x Eucalyptus grandis with gypsum use under subtropical conditions

Abstract

Gypsum can be used as a source for calcium (Ca) and sulphurum (S) for plants, as well as an acid, that is, a natural soil conditioner. Aiming to determine the influence of gypsum on the development of Eucalyptus urograndis in Brazil, an experiment was conducted at two locations in Parana State. Experiments were conducted with rates of 0, 0.3, 0.6, 1.2, 2.4, 4.8 and 9.6 Mg ha-1 to verify the method of broadcast planting in a randomized block design with four repetitions. Diameter and height of plants were measured every six months and volume was determined after 36 months. There was a difference in Eucalyptus growth between the two areas, possibly related to differences in planting season and climate. Gypsum did not influence on the dendrometric growth of Eucalyptus trees. The lack of a response to gypsum, as a source of Ca, S and soil conditioner, was discussed based on soil type, Eucalyptus tolerance to soil acidity, and climatic conditions in the period evaluated.