Silviculture of Mahogany

Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) is one of the best-known and most valuable tropical timbers currently traded internationally. Concern has increased over the exploitation of mahogany, particularly as most timber is currently derived from natural forests which are not managed sustainably. Such concerns have resulted in an increased research effort focusing on the ecology of the species in natural forest. The potential of mahogany plantations as an alternative source of timber has received relatively little attention. However, evidence suggests mahogany may be a viable plantation species in many countries. The successful development of such plantations could make a major contribution towards meeting future demands for mahogany timber, and thereby help to reduce pressures on natural forest. The main aim of this book is to produce a comprehensive account of mahogany silviculture, with a particular emphasis on plantations, by bringing together the findings of foresters and researchers from mahogany-growing countries around the world. There is a logical progression through the stages of seed collection, plantation establishment, maintenance, prediction of growth and yield, protection and management of both natural stands and plantations under suitable silvicultural systems. This book is an indispensable guide and reference for those involved in growing and managing mahogany and will also be valuable to ecologists and land managers as well as students of forestry.

Table of Contents:
1: Introduction 2: Description of the species 3: Mahogany as a plantation species 4: Seed production 5: Nursery techniques 6: Site selection 7: Plantation establishment 8: Plantation maintenance 9: Growth and yield 10: Timber quality 11: Shoot borer control 12: Protection 13: Silvicultural systems 14: Conclusions

Review :
"This volume is a very comprehensive monograph on all aspects of the management of Swietenia macrophylla, with a strong emphasis on plantation-grown trees.... In addition to the interesting historical accounts of mahogany production, the authors also include prescriptions and suggestions for collecting, storing, and preparing seed, producing plant stock in nurseries ..., selecting appropriate plantation sites ..., management of insect pests, growing mahogany together with agricultural crops, and maintenance of plantations once they have been established (including weeding, fertilizing, pruning, and thinning).... I would strongly recommend this book to those interested in preserving mahogany as a timber-producing species. The comprehensive treatment of both successful and unsuccessful attempts to grow the species under natural and plantation conditions is a guide for the profitable production of one of the world's most valuable timber species."--Plant Science Bulletin