Establishment of honey-bearing forest plantation and development of mixed planting scheme

Abstract

This article examines the species composition and spatial design of a mixed forest plantation incorporating melliferous trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants. Calculated planting densities and the implemented design were analysed for two experimental plots covering a total area of 2 ha. Nominal area per tree and theoretical density were calculated for 4×4, 4×5, 5×5, 5×6 and 6×6 m spacing options. A 5×6 m spacing was adopted for the main trees to accommodate the tree, shrub and herbaceous components within a single planting system. Each experimental plot contained 320 main trees and 320 shrubs, with an additional 100 goat willow plants established near the water source. A central strip 3 m wide within the interrows was allocated to herbaceous melliferous plants. The practical contribution of the design lies in integrating different plant life forms and providing a spatial framework for a seasonal bee forage supply.