Forestry plays an important role in socio-economic development and environmental sustainability in the Lao PDR. Increasing the density of forest areas through afforestation and restoring degraded areas to achieve sustainable results requires the use of high-quality tree species. At the same time, clear and standardized technical knowledge in the seedling production process is a determining factor in the success of afforestation projects at all levels. This handbook on "Tree Seed Production and Propagation Techniques in Laos" is developed with the aim of providing a standardised technical, technological, and innovative approach that can be applied to the actual conditions in the Lao PDR. The manual emphasizes the need for managing seed resources with species diversity, selecting superior parent trees, and using technically correct methods of tree seed collection, propagation, and storage to ensure high germination and survival rates of seedlings in nurseries.
This handbook will be an indispensable tool for academics, researchers, developers, nursery operators, and farmers. Each chapter in the handbook is organized systematically, including specific instructions on seedbed preparation, nursery establishment, seedling care, and management of large trees.
Warm gratitude and appreciation are expressed to the experts, researchers, and stakeholders who contributed their knowledge and experience to the successful compilation of this handbook. This includes the National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute (NAFRI) working group, the director, senior staff, forestry staff across the country, and farmers. Most importantly, the handbook could not have been completed without the technical guidance and funding support from the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT through the APFORGEN network.
It is hoped that the lessons and recommendations in this handbook will be widely and effectively implemented, enabling all sectors to produce quality seedlings to contribute to the Lao PDR’s goal of achieving high-quality and sustainable forest development.
