EVALUATING THE POTENTIAL OF ECTOMYCORHYZAL FUNGI IN ENHANCING GERMINATION AND EARLY GROWTH OF SOME NATIVE TREE SPECIES

This study was carried out to examine the influence on the potential of ecto mycorrhiza fungi (EMF) in enhancing the germination and early growth of selected tree species in Nigeria, using the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, Department of Forestry and Environmental Technology at the nursery site. This research revealed the early growth performance of three tree species including: Gmelina arborea, Parkia biglobosa and Azadirachta indica. Two treatments combination were carried out T1 (cow dung + shaft sand + Ecto mycorrhiza) and T2 cow dung+shaft sand, served as the (control) were evaluated. A total of 30 experimental units (3 species ×2 treatment×5 replications) were carried out over a period of 12 weeks and data collection were conducted at two-weeks intervals. The parameters assessment including the plant height, stem grith and number of leaves. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA with replications. From the findings it was indicated that both treatments had significant effect on all measured growth parameters, while in their interaction was not significant. Seedlings under T1 showed markedly improved performance in height and leaf number compared to those under T2. Among the species, Gmelina arborea consistently recorded the heights growth values, followed by Parkia biglobosa and Azadirachta indica which indicate the least growth response. The research also revealed that mycorrhiza fungi inoculation can be a valuable and sustainable practice in nursery and reforestation establishment and programs.