First analyses of arboricultural stands in Apulia during the 1994-1996 campaign of the European Economic Community Regulation no. 2080/92

Abstract

This study presents the results of an investigation conducted in 2002 of the most recent forest phytocoenosis in the Apulia region from 1994 through 1996 in accordance with European Economic Regulation No. 2080/92. The objective of the survey was to evaluate the species of trees planted as well as the techniques used for cultivation. Particular attention was given to the phytopathologic conditions of both biotic and nonbiotic origin. The state of the cultivation was periodically analysed by means of field observations, phytopathologic surveys, laboratory testing and isolation (fungal and bacterial) of microorganisms from a significant number of samples obtained from 5% of the plants in each stand. Among the tree species planted, the most common were walnut, cherry, ash, and Mediterranean oaks. The seedlings from nurseries in northern Italy did not yield the same quality results as did those originating from the Apulia region. Proper cultivation of the stands in the first few years had positive effects on rooting and on the growth of young plants. In other stands, failed areas were attributed to smothering and weed spreading due to lack of cultivation. The stand density resulted often higher than that sustainable by the pedo-climatic conditions; damage caused by machinery and pruning was also frequent. In the phytopathogenic surveys, fungi and other pathogens were frequently found, particularly Marssonina juglandis, Botryosphaeria ribis and various other branchwithering agents on walnut trees, Coryneum beijerinckii, Cylindrosporium padi, Armillaria mellea and Cylindrocarpon destructans on cherry trees, Cryphonectria parasitica on chestnut trees and certain species of oidium on oaks and other broadleaved trees. Among the damaging agents, Zeuzera pyrina caused diffuse apical drying of branches and breaking of the trunk of walnut trees. To promote rooting and to improve plant life and resistance to pathogens, healthy plants from the study area and proper cultivation techniques are suggested, especially in the first 4 to 5 years after planting. Periodic monitoring may limit or prevent damage, the uncontrolled spread of pathogens and plant exposure to the most harmful diseases.