Question

Stump planting in teak was developed by

• A. Bourdilloni and Chatumenon
• B. D Brandis and Chatumenon
• C. Conolly and D Brandis
• D. Chaturvedi and Khanna

Hint:

Stump = 2cm Shoot + 22cm Root. It is the most robust way to plant teak. Chattu Menon is the silvicultural hero of this discovery!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
Stump planting (or root-shoot cutting) is the standard method for establishing teak plantations. It involves cutting a one-year-old seedling to keep about 2cm of the shoot and 20-25cm of the taproot. The question asks who developed this revolutionary technique.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Technical Challenge: In the early 1800s, foresters struggled to establish teak through direct seeding or whole-seedling transplanting, which had high mortality rates.

• The Breakthrough: Chattu Menon, the sub-conservator at Nilambur, experimented extensively with different propagation methods. He developed the "Stump" technique, which proved incredibly hardy and successful. It allowed for easy transport and rapid establishment even in tough field conditions.

• Role of Brandis: Sir Dietrich Brandis standardized and documented these nursery practices during his tenure as Inspector General, promoting their use across the country.

• The Method: A "stump" is prepared from healthy nursery stock. The shoot is cut at a 45-degree angle. Stumps can be stored for several days in moist gunny bags, making them ideal for large-scale logistics.

• Result: This development is the reason India became a global leader in teak silviculture.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Stump planting was primarily developed through the field experiments of Chattu Menon, supported by the administration of foresters like D. Brandis.