What spacing and intercrops work for a mahogany plantation in the early years?

For a timber mahogany stand, spacing of about 10 by 10 feet or 12 by 12 feet is common, giving roughly 300 to 430 trees per acre, with thinning later as the canopy closes. In the first three to four years, while the trees are small and let in light, you can intercrop short crops like turmeric, ginger, pulses, vegetables or fodder to earn during the long gestation. Once the canopy closes, intercropping options reduce, so shift to shade tolerant or no intercrop. Keep the trees pruned for a clean straight bole, which fetches a better timber price. Match intercrops to your soil and water, and check local market demand before choosing them.