Potential for genetic improvement of yield of exotic softwood tree species in Rwandan plantation forestry1

Abstract

Exotic softwoodtree species playamajorrole in Rwandan plantationforestry. Theyareusedto produce sawn timber used for various purposes. Pinus patula is the major commercial species. Growth and yield of this species were compared in terms of seed source variation based on two trials, one established in MuhangaNdiza, Mushubati District, Gitarama Province at 16 years and anotherin Cyeru District, Ruhengeri Province at 15 years. Yield comparison was also made between P. patula and other new species being tested namely P. caribaea, P. kesiya, P. maximinoi and P. tecunumanii.