The effects of different seeding techniques on establishment and growth of Brant`s oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) seedlings

The viability, height, and vitality of Brant`s oak (Quercus brantii Lindl.) seedlings from five different seeding techniques were studied in a completely randomized design in Ilam forests. The treatments included 1) seeding in holes with 50 cm depth and 40 cm diameter in the shelter of 50% UV resistant laces (shade treatment), 2) seeding in holes with 50 cm depth and 40 cm diameter and pouring down hummus and litters on sown seeds (litter treatment), 3) seeding in holes with 50 cm depth and 40 cm diameter and use of super-absorbent (super absorbent treatment), 4) seeding in holes with depth of 100 cm and a diameter of 60 cm (deep hole treatment), and finally 5) seeding at a depth of 5 cm from the soil surface (control treatment). Also, the relative light intensity in all holes was measured using a fisheye camera, and a regression model was obtained from the seeding survival rate. The results of the comparison of the mean (p < 0.01) indicated that the deep hole, super absorbent, shelter, and litter treatments showed a 134.5, 138.2, 178.6, and 243.3% increase in seedling viability, respectively. Furthermore, shelter and deep holes treatments revealed a 19.5% and 31% increase in seedling height, while litter and deep holes treatments had 18% and 31% increase of seeding vitality, respectively. The fitted regression model indicated a significant correlation (R2 = 0.73, p < 0.01) between viability and relative light percentage (except for the deep hole treatment). Results revealed that litter treatment can be recommended as the most suitable method for the oak seedling. However, further research is required in case of the shade and deep holes treatment, which showed the best survival performance prior to soil erosion and seedings mortality.