Abstract

Field performance of 6 indigenous tree species (Albizia odoratissima, Grewia tiliaefolia [G. tiliifolia], Pterocarpus marsupium, Xylia xylocarpa, Haldina cordifolia and Lagerstroemia microcarpa) in relation to insect pest damage was studied in trial plantations raised in monoculture and mixed cultures in Kerala. Observations were also made on seed pests and nursery pests. There are very few instances of pest outbreaks in natural stands, but pest incidence was serious in trial plantations. Monocultures of most species (excepting X. xylocarpa and H. cordifolia) showed high levels of pest attack, with G. tiliaefolia being the most susceptible, followed by L. microcarpa, P. marsupium and A. odoratissima. Some of the mixed plantations were less susceptible to pest damage. In the nursery, X. xylocarpa and H. cordifolia were pest free, but the other species showed heavy infestation. Application of appropriate insecticides is recommended in the nursery and in trial plantations to ensure