Establishment of plantation company for neem

Abstract of the presentation of

Umanda Rathnayake

Goldenleaves Company manages neem (Azadirachta indica) plantations in the dry and intermediate zones in Sri Lanka and their two main plantation sites are located in Korakanawewa and Anurapuraya. Main species of the plantation is Azadirachta indica which belong to the family Meliacea. Azadirachta indica originated in Burma or Indo-Pakistan sub continent. In 19^th century , East Indian immigrants have carried the plants from particular region. Therefore tree improvement effort for Neem. Under Sri Lankan condition and it generally found in mixed forest system in Sri Lanka associated with several broad leaved tree species such as Acacia, Teak, Mahogany.

There are various silvilcultural methods, agro-forestry practices using in Azadirachta indica plantations. Management prescriptions starts from seed collection and it runs until doing the harvesting. Generally improved seeds can be taken from clonal seed orchards, seed production areas. Tissue culture to develop large scale uniform superior plants can also be practiced. Good silvicultural practices like proper spacing (2.5m×2.5m), pruning, weeding, thinning, pest and disease control can be done to produce high quality timer.

Seasoning, polishing furniture products, manufacturing timber products according to customer’s requirement, practicing seasoning methods, obtaining certain forest certifications will be add values to the end product.