Observações sobre floração e frutificação em Eucalyptus grandis de origem híbrida, em Viçosa, Minas Gerias

Resumo

The flowering fruiting behavior of a 21-year-old Eucalyptus grandis plantation of hybrid origin in Viçosa was examined over a period of 18 months. Observations were made as to presence of floral buds, open flowers, immature fruit and mature fruit.

Floral buds, most commonly present during January to May, took about two months to develop into open flowers. Flowers were also present on any one floral branch for about two months. The fruiting period was much more variable, with the fruit remaining in an immature stage between two and six months after flowering.

The phenological data indicate that the fruit matures sometime between eight and twelve months after the appearance of the floral buds. It is recommended that seed collection be made while the capsule is in the «valve slightly opened category and thus full of viable seed. Preliminary measurements made in 1974 as well as those reported here confirm this. The greatest number of seeds can be obtained during the months of October through March. Thereafter, the capsules open, and the seeds are rapidly dispersed.