¿How to estimate the phenological stage of trees with a practical method?

Abstract

The constant assessment of the phenology of trees is significant for the adaptation analysis of species to climate change, the biodiversity conservation, management of ecosystems and the improvement of agroforestry practices. Direct visual observations and measurements have been used to record the timing of specific phenological events for particular plant species, in small spatial expanses. In phenology studies, the Fournier method has been recognized and recommended by different authors. The objective of this work is to illustrate an alternative method to determine the phenology of a tree. Different phenophases were determined for which 30 phenotypically healthy trees with reproductive capacity were selected divided into two categories of trees with (A <6 m and A≥ 6 m). The phenological measurements were carried out every 15 days for 12 months. The following phenophases will be considered: adult leaves (Ha), shoots or young leaves (Br), buttons (Bot), flowering (FL) and fruits1 (F1), fruits2 (F2) and fruits3 (F3). It is concluded that the Duarte-Hemberg method is consistent and practical.

Keywords: Ecophysiology; agroforestry, observation, phenology