This study shall involve the identification and selection of sample trees in randomly selected towns in the region where each tree species will be found growing abundantly. The results of Study1 will be used as basis in the selection of study sites. Since the trees to be identified and included in the study will likely come from areas with varying site conditions, the soil characteristics and other biophysical conditions shall be described/documented in detail.

Likewise, tree features shall be described in terms of growth characteristics (height, stem girth or diameter at breast height, and crown diameter), crown forms, stem forms (mean cylindricality, straightness and taper, etc.), and branching habits. Sample fruits shall be collected from the sample trees. The following traits shall be measured: a) fruit size, b) fruit weight or mass, and c) seed weight. Fruit/nut yield attributes shall be carried out to determine the productivity estimates of the individual tree species at a specific location. Tags will be used in labeling the collected materials indicating the collection number, date and site and the species.

The leafing, flowering and fruiting of each tree species shall be monitored for two growing seasons. The sample trees will be visited every two weeks and the timing of leaf fall, leaf flushing, start and duration of flowering, and the development of fruits until maturity shall be monitored and recorded. Data on monthly rainfall, temperature and day length will be obtained from an Agromet station nearest to the study sites. A diagram of the phenological cycles of each species shall be prepared.