Growth and survival of a plantation of Pinus greggii Engelm. ex Parl. var. greggii under different fertilization treatments

Introduction: The forestry sector in Mexico faces deforestation problems and low productive growth. To activate unproductive regions, in the state of Durango, the establishment of Pinus greggii Engelm. ex Parl. var. greggii plantations is promoted. Objective: To evaluate the effect of fertilizers on growth, nutrient status and survival of P. greggii var. greggii seedlings. Materials and methods: Five slow-release fertilizers and two fertilizers for agricultural use were studied in doses of 7 and 14 g per plant, and a control (unfertilized). Results and discussion: After 12 months significant differences were found (P < 0.001) in volume, height, and diameter increments, due to the effect of fertilizers. In comparison with the control, only slow-release fertilizers 12-25-12, 09-23-14 and 18-06-12 of N-P-K had increases in height and diameter, as well as wood volumes, significantly higher. In the case of foliar concentrations, only P showed significant differences between treatments (P = 0.030). N and P were limiting, but the application of K favored growth. Regarding the survival of seedlings, no significant differences were found attributable to fertilizer and its doses. Conclusion: The initial application of slow-release fertilizers 12-25-12, 09-23-14 and 18-06-12 of N-P-K favors growth of P. greggii var. greggii seedlings.