Effects of Eucalyptus on Farmlands in Western Kenya

Abstract

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus saligna and Eucalypts grandis or (saligna/grandis hybrid) is widely grown by small-scale farmers in the highlands of western Kenya. Preference for the species is due to its fast growth, good stem form, coppicing ability, reasonably durable wood, tolerance to water logging, multiple-use (firewood, poles, posts, and timber), ready market for its products, easy workability characteristics and environmental conservation. Trees are planted as small woodlots in areas of low agricultural productivity, steep slopes or swampy places. This study carried out in Gucha, Nyamira, Kisii. Nandi, Kakamega and Vihiga districts of Western Kenya sought to document effects of Eucalyptus on farmlands From each districts two divisions with a large number of tree growers were selected. From each division, forty (40) farmers who have been actively involved in tree planting, management and utilization were randomly selected and interviewed using pre-prepared questionnaires. Visits and observations were also made to individual tree planting sites. Eucalyptus though grown and preferred by many farmers, it has several negative impacts on the farmlands. Heavy water consumption, crop yield reduction and nutrient depletion are the main negative effects associated with this species. In part II of the research, looking at the allelopathic effects of Eucalyptus on agricultural crops, it was observed that Eucalyptus leaf extracts reduced seed germination, leaf area, number of leaves, shoot length and seedling growth of maize and beans.