Testing Direct Seeding Method of Native Tree Species for Restoring a Disturbed Mixed Deciduous Forest

The objectives of this research were to test appropriate native tree species for restoring a disturbed mixed deciduous forest by direct seeding method and study effects of bamboos on germination and growth of the native tree species. The research was conducted in the forest area of Bodhivijjalaya College, Srinakharinwirot University, Mae Sot District, Tak Province. Native tree species were tested which were Afzelia xylocarpa , Bauhinia malabarica , Cassia fistula , Erythrina subumbrans , Knema erratica , Spondias pinnata and Terminalia bellirica . The results indicated that K. erratica germinated more than 60 percent both in the bamboo forest and in the nursery which higher than other species. It was also the only species that could survive after first rainy season with 88.2 percent survival rate. T. bellirica could not germinate in the bamboo forest, which seems not to be suitable for restoration by direct seeding method. Keywords : seedling establishment, seed germination, tropical forest restoration