Plantations of a wide range of tree species have assumed an important place in our world, providing wood for industry, fuelwood and animal fodder, protection from adverse environments and for the soil, as well as amenity and aesthetically pleasing landscapes. silvicultural knowledge of this particular branch of forestry first developed in Europe more than two centuries ago but in many parts of the world is still in a process of rapid evolution as more and more plantations are established to meet specific needs. The first exotic tree species to be established in plantations in my own country...