Study of irrigation regime on establishment, survival and growth of holm oak (Quercus ilex L.) (Case study: Marzanabad region in Chalous)

The effects of different irrigation regime on survival and growth of holm oak (Quercus ilex L.) plantation was studied in a semi-arid Mediterranean climate condition located in Marzanabad region (Mazindaran province). This study was done as Randomized Complete Block design with three replicates and four treatments, including no-irrigation and irrigation with 10, 20 and 30 day periods during dry months in growing seasons (spring and summer). Climate data analysis showed that a severe frost and three to six dry months annually occurred in growing season during study years (2006-2010). Height growth and survival of saplings were measured every year and at the end of 5^th year. Analysis of data showed that irrigation treatment with 10-day intervals with a 65% survival is preferred and differences are significant (p<%1). No difference was seen among treatments from height growth point of view. In general, the most important restricting factor on holm oak establishment and growth in this area are alkaline soil and dry environment conditions.