Technico-economic evaluation of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) seedling production in community forest nurseries, southern Benin

Description of the subject. The present study deals with the production of the seedlings of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.), a species used in forest plantations in southern Benin. Objectives. The aim of the study was to evaluate the techniques and the profitability of teak seedling production in the community nurseries of southern Benin. Method. A survey was carried out in 55 community nurseries selected in the Atlantique department, based on the snowball sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nursery holders to collect data on activity organization, techniques of production, costs, and sales revenues. Results. Two types of community nursery were found to be operating: individual nurseries and collective nurseries. Seedling production methods varied widely across the nurseries. The collection of tout venant seeds, and the use of inadequate polyethylene containers might affect seedling quality. A financial analysis showed that nursery holders were receiving a positive return from their activity. The average net revenue from the production of 1,000 seedlings ranged between FCFA 20,603 and 26,649. Conclusions. Improved performance of community nurseries will require the provision of assistance to nursery holders in accessing good quality seeds, and the implementation of further retraining on production techniques.