Willow (Salix species) is known for its multiple uses but most of the indigenous willow species found in India lack quality wood characters suitable for industrial uses.
Jaipal Sharma explaining the process of gowing Shitake mushrooms on willow log. (Photo: SNS)
Uttarakhand forest officials were given one-day training on importance, cultivation and variety registration of willows to promote its cultivation, keeping in mind the variety’s multifarious uses.
The Forest Department officials from Uttarakhand got the training at the Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni in Solan district and the Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources (TIGR) Department conducted the training.
A group of 10 forest range officers, van darogas and an assistant conservator of forests took part in the training.
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Training coordinator Dr Jaipal Sharma said this was first training on a single tree species.
“The tree has multiple uses in making household furniture, plyboard industry, fodder for goats and for making cricket bats. In addition, willow sawdust and logs are used in growing shitake mushroom, which fetches a handsome price in the market due to health benefits,” he said.
Willow (Salix species) is known for its multiple uses but most of the indigenous willow species found in India lack quality wood characters suitable for industrial uses.
Keeping in view its importance, the University has introduced several clones from different countries, which were screened in the nursery as well as well field conditions, he added.
Sharma said the University has also undertaken wood samples of selected clones, which have been tested by different industries. Many hybrids have also been developed and screened, and some have been recommended for commercial plantation.
College of Forestry dean Dr PK Mahajan stressed on the need to establish strong coordination between the forest department of the state and the university scientists so that the research can be properly implemented in the field.
Dr Sanjeev Thakur urged the forest officials to ensure the farmers are made aware of the benefits of willow cultivation.
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