Conifer trials in Lesotho: a review of results

The most adaptable conifer species in Lesotho is Pinus radiata, which will produce good yields and survival over a wide range of sites. Another pine that could be planted more widely is P. greggii, which could be a useful species for inclusion into silvopastoral systems due to its light canopy. Other pine species with potential on specific sites include P. patula and P. taeda. On very dry sites, P. halepensis and P. brutia are recommended becsue of their high survival, but on other sites they should be avoided because of slow growth. Of the other conifers Cupressus arizonica var glrabra has proved to be a tough but slow growing species and is widely planted in the mountains. Trial blocks of Pinus densiflora, Pinus mugo and Pinus ponderosa should be established and growth compared with C. arizonica var glabra. Other pines worth investigating in the mountains are Pinus attenuata, Pinus arsitata and Pinus peuce. Also worth investigating over a range of sites are two cypresses, C. lusitanica and C. torrulosa. other conifers recommended for testing were Callitris spp., Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Juniperus virginiana and Pseusotsuga mensiezii