Growing Sandalwood in Nepal—Potential Silvicultural Methods and Research Priorities

Interest in sandalwood has increased recently in Nepal as a result of a royal directive to plant it in the Eastern Development Region. The most suitable seed sources, seed acquisition, nursery techniques, direct sowing and plantation establishment methods are discussed here on the basis of results from elsewhere. Suggestions are made as to what research is most needed to assist with successful establishment of sandalwood in Nepal. The silvicultural methods discussed could well be of use to other countries that are interested in introducing and establishing sandalwood plantations. This paper is related to one that was recently published in Banko Janakari, a forestry journal in Nepal (Neil 1990). It summarizes knowledge on the propagation and silviculture of sandalwood so that it can be successfully established in the kingdom. It also summarizes research results from elsewhere so that any new research will not repeat completed work or continue to investigate methods that have already been proved unsuccessful. The need for research into the establishment of sandalwood in Nepal has arisen because of the interest that His Majesty the King has shown in the species, which has led to a royal directive to plant it in the Eastern Development Region. The methods discussed and recommended for adoption in Nepal may well prove useful for other countries that wish to establish sandalwood plantations. This could apply particularly to countries that are interested in introducing the species, or that would like to plant their indigenous sandalwood species but are unsure of how to go about it.