Differences in basic density and strength properties of Milicia excelsa, Maesopsis eminii, Cynometra alexandri and Celtis gomphophylla from Budongo forest, Uganda

Abstract

Strength properties of four species comprising two that were less desirable (Cynometra alexandri and Celtis gomphophylla) and two desirable species (Maesopsis eminii and Milicia excelsa) from Budongo Forest Reserve, Uganda were studied. Three trees of each species were sampled in the diameter size classes: 60-69 cm, 70-79 cm and 80-89 cm, respectively. The preparation of samples and determination of basic density and strength properties followed the standard procedures of wood strength testing. The less desirable species had higher strength properties than the desirable species. The mean basic density for C. alexandri and C. gomphophylla categorised as less desirable were: 738 and 519 kg/m³ compared to the preferred M. eminii and M. excelsa (BD: 359 and 463 kg/m³). High values of basic density and strength properties of wood for species considered less desirable for timber shows that utilisation of these species should be promoted to save tile desirable species.