Seed and Tree improvement

The quality of seed used in tree planting is a critical factor in the success of achieving any tree planting programme objectives. The Malawi National Forestry Policy calls for promotion and improvement of the supply of high quality and improved tree seed. The purpose of this strategy area is thus to optimise the quantity of good quality seed of both indigenous and exotic tree species for plantations and agroforestry programmes in Malawi. This therefore calls for a well-designed tree improvement and seed production and management programme. The research focus is on genetic improvement of important plantation and agroforestry species, establishment and management of seed production areas, identification and certification of in-situ seed collection areas for indigenous species and studies in seed technology. The National Tree Seed Centre (NTSC) is responsible for supplying improved tree seed of various species for all types of tree planting activities in Malawi.