Chapter-1

INTRODUCTION

Apple is one of the most important temperate fruit crop grown throughout
the world. It belongs to genus Malus, family Rosaceae with basic chromosome
number 17. Most of the cultivated apple varieties are diploid. Some cultivars are
triploids and tetraploids as well. The cultivated apple is usually referred to as
Malus pumila L., although, the exact name is M. domestica Borkh. The origin of
apple is considered to be the Caucasus, Asia Minor and Soviet Central Asia. In
India, apple is cultivated in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand,
Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Sikkim. Some low chilling varieties are also
cultivated in Nilgiri hills and eastern Himalayan ranges.

Apple is very nutritious, aromatic and delicious fruit and a rich source of
vitamins A, B and C. It contains about 11% sugar besides essential minerals. It
purifies blood by transforming toxic chemicals into less harmful compounds and
thereby lowering blood cholesterol. It can reduce the risk of prostrate, colon and
lung cancer and may protect the brain from neuro-degenerative diseases. Apple
fruit is good source of important phytochemicals like antioxidants, flavonoids and
other free phenolics.

In recent years, productivity of apple orchards has been decreasing there

by causing a serious concern for the apple growers. Main cause for decline in
production and productivity are non-availability of quality planting material,
proper selection of varieties of rootstocks and inadequate adoption of advanced
production technologies. Most of the commercial plantations are now more than
35-40 years old and have surpassed the commercial bearing life and need to be
replaced. Therefore large plantations are coming up in new areas and old orchards
are being replaced as they have completed their life cycle. There is a huge demand
of good quality apple plants every year. In apple, both the seedling and clonal
rootstocks are employed all over the world.

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 Rootstock is an essential component to enhance fruit quality and
productivity because of its wider adoptability to diverse environmental condition
and cultural practices besides having the traits that are absent in the scion, such as
soil pest and disease resistance, better hostage, improved nutrient uptake, better
tolerance to soils with high saline soils as well as other soil limiting factors. On
the other hand, they can modify the performance of scion by reducing tree vigor
and modifying canopy structure that would allow the establishment of high
density orchards. Rootstocks currently available for fruit species are of two types;
seedling and clonal rootstocks. Seedling rootstocks are raised from seeds of a
particular cultivar and being easy and inexpensive to propagate, it is probably still
most widely used. Seedling rootstocks however have the disadvantage of
presenting genetic variability, which leads to an uneven performance. This
variability can affect important characteristics such as vigor and productivity.
Apple trees grown on seedling rootstocks often tend to develop into large and
vigorous trees, which become difficult to manage. Clonal root stocks offer a
viable solution for this problem, which have been used by the fruit growers in
scientifically advanced countries for better management and quality fruit
production.

Clonal rootstocks have the advantage of generating uniform, precocious,

dwarfing, easier to manage and more productive orchards. Thus, in apple the use
of clonal rootstocks has become an acceptable practice of eliminating variability
arising from the use of variable seedling rootstocks and reducing tree size and
increasing precocity and productivity. Nursery plants on seedling rootstocks are
usually sold as one to three years old and cause the loss of time and cost. Apple
clonal rootstocks are conventionally propagated through mound layering
(stooling). Various other vegetative methods have also been employed to
propagate apple clonal rootstocks. One of the convenient methods of clonal
propagation is through hardwood cuttings. Clonal propagation of rootstocks
through stooling and using hardwood cuttings is of special importance as it is

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beneficial tool to increase the production of rootstock. While grafting the above
crown portion of rootstock most of shoot, more than 80% of its length goes
unutilized and waste. This part of rootstock can be used as hardwood cuttings to
produce rooted plantlets and increase multiplication rate of clonal rootstocks.

Some clonal rootstocks are difficult to root. The rooting can be improved
through the use of plant growth regulators and different rooting media. Among the
growth regulators, synthetic auxins are extensively used for inducing rooting.
Plant growth regulators particularly IBA plays significant role in initiation of
rooting in stem cuttings. Synthetic auxin like IBA (Indolebutyric acid) is widely
used due to its ability to increase rooting and to induce a fibrous root system. It is
highly desirable to build up a healthy and well developed root system for enabling
better field establishment of stock plant. Another factor which influences
appreciable rooting is the rooting medium. Rooting media also play a very
important role in the root proliferation and further growth in plants raised by stem
cutting. The use of different organic and inorganic substrates allow the plants for
best nutrient uptake and sufficient growth and development to optimize water and
oxygen holding. Keeping these points in view, the research work was conducted
with the following objectives:-

1. To study the response of IBA and rooting media on rooting potential of

hardwood cuttings of apple.

2. To study best combination of media and IBA concentration on rooting

potential of apple rootstock.

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Chapter-2

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Vegetative or clonal propagation of apple is the important propagation

method used for commercial production and has been practiced since long period.
For maintaining genetical identity of the plants the propagation techniques such as
cutting, grafting and layering are practiced. Cutting is the oldest technique used in
the propagation of tropical and sub-tropical fruit plants like grapes, guava, fig,
mulberry, passion fruit etc. and temperate fruit like apple, peach. The goal of
vegetative propagation is to select a single source plant of superior characteristics
and to reproduce population of progeny plants with identical genotype. Most of
the fruit plants are heterozygous in nature and as such their unique characteristics
are changed if they are propagated through seed. Propagation through cuttings is
the most common means of clonal regeneration of number of horticultural crops.
Adventitious root formation is pre-requisite to successful cutting propagation
(Hartmann et al., 2009).

Attempts have been made by various research workers from time to time
to standardize suitable propagation techniques using various rooting media,
growth hormone and apple clonal rootstocks. A comprehensive review of
literature on various aspects related to the “Response of rooting media and growth
hormone on the rooting behavior of apple clonal rootstocks” is reviewed under the
following headings:

2.1 Effect of growth hormone and rooting media on sprouting and

vegetative characters
Great variations in the rooting ability of cuttings occur among different
species and cultivars. The careful selection for material of cuttings from stock
plants, management of cuttings and control of environmental conditions during
rooting plays a significant role on rooting of cuttings in most of fruit species
(Hartmann et al., 1997).

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 Pandey et al. (1983) observed that maximum number and length of roots
per shoot was obtained in stool layers of Mazzard F 12/1 when treated with 7500
ppm IBA. Investigation by Fachinello et al. (1988) on rooting of hardwood
cuttings of apple rootstock MM106 revealed that ringing and application of IBA
2500 ppm stimulated rooting as well as root and shoot dry matter accumulation.

Oraon (1988) carried out an experiment to study the success of cuttings of

guava which were planted in different media like sand, soil, lacmud, sawdust,
FYM alone and its mixture and treated with NAA, IAA at different
concentrations. In semi hardwood cutting planted in media (lacmud 50% + sand
25% + soil 25%) maximum sprouting (80%) was recorded.

Baghel and Saraswat (1989) studied the effect of various rooting media
(soil, sand, sawdust, FYM, river silt and their combinations) on rooting and
growth of hardwood and semi-hardwood cuttings of pomegranate. The results
revealed that maximum percentage of success and survival of cutting was found in
river silt, but shoot length, number of leaves per shoot, leaf area and number of
roots per cutting were found maximum in soil + FYM.

Ishtiaq et al. (1989) obtained maximum number of roots per cutting in

peach cultivars Peshawar local and Nemaguard with IBA. In the both cultivars,
earliest sprouting, maximum increase in stem diameter and highest percentage of
plant survival was obtained with 2000 ppm IBA.

Jawanda et al. (1990) found that IBA concentration improved rooting

percentage, number of root per cuttings, root weight, number of shoots per
cutting, shoot length and thickness, number of leaves per cutting and leaf area in
the cuttings of Japanese plum.

Shukla and Bist (1994) reported that number of leaves formed on the
shoots of Mehal cuttings was significantly higher than Patharnakh cutting. The
maximum number of leaves was observed in 500 ppm IBA (48.8) and 1000 ppm
IBA (43.9). Maximum shoot length (103.5 cm) was obtained in 500 ppm IBA.

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 Badshah et al. (1995) reported that 3000 ppm IBA is the optimum
concentration for rooting of M26 and M27 apple rootstock cuttings as it resulted
in the highest sprouting and survival percentage.

Iqbal et al. (1999) studied the effect of different concentrations of IBA on

root initiation of apple cuttings. IBA was applied in five different concentrations
(1000 ppm, 2000 ppm, 3000 ppm, 4000 ppm and 5000 ppm) to study number of
days to bud sprouting, number of shoots per cuttings, shoot length, number of
leaves per cuttings, number of roots per cutting, root length and survival
percentage. Significant effects were recorded for all the parameters except
numbers of leaves per cuttings. Minimum days to bud sprouting (15) were
recorded in cuttings treated with 3000 ppm, while maximum days were taken by
untreated cuttings (22). Maximum number of shoots (3) and maximum shoot
length (8 cm) were obtained from 3000 ppm, as compared to control recording
minimum. Maximum number of roots (7) and maximum root length (11.25 cm)
were observed in cuttings treated with 3000 ppm, while minimum number of roots
(4) and minimum root length (7 cm) were observed in control. Best plant survival
(76.67%) was given with 3000 ppm concentration, while it was minimum
(16.67%) in cuttings were not treated with IBA.

Halder et al. (2002) investigated that the performance of stem cutting with
IBA in different ornamental plants. Ixora (Ixora chinensis) performed the best in
respect of highest number (40.10) of leaves per cutting, longest roots (5.15 cm)
and fresh and dry weight of roots per cutting (1.35 fresh weight and 0.29 g dry
weight). Both fresh and dry weight of leaves and shoots per cutting were highest
in Poinsettia (Poinsettia pulcherima). Poinsettia also produced highest number
(46.97) of roots per cutting. Mussaenda (Mussaenda erythroplylla) and Night
Jasmine (Nyctanthes arbortristis) failed to produce any root.

Awan et al. (2003) studied the effect of different substrates on the olive
hard wood cuttings and reported that maximum number of shoots, shoot length
and number of leaves were obtained in clay media while as minimum number of

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shoots, shoot length and numbers of leaves were recorded in well decomposed
FYM.

Lakra (2004) experimented in Horticulture Nursery, BAU, Kanke on semi

hardwood cuttings of passion fruit on 12 types of rooting media and recorded the
maximum shoot length (20.07 cm) in FYM + soil media.

Correia et al. (2005) found that guava rootstocks produced maximum plant
height (30.2 cm), stem diameter (5.3 mm), root dry matter mass (3.0 g) when
grown in the vermiculite + vermicompost substrate.

Sharma et al. (2005) found that IBA 3000 ppm induced more number of
roots and increased the emergence of new leaves in semi-hardwood cuttings of
MM106 followed by M9 and M2 rootstocks.

Stefancic et al. (2005) studied the influence of two exogenously applied

auxins (IAA and IBA) on the root and shoot development of leafy cuttings of the
dwarfing cherry rootstock ‘Gisela 5’ and noticed that IBA (indole-3-butyric acid)
hindered the callus formation in the early period of root development and it was
more successful than IAA (indole-3-acetic acid) in promoting early root
development. IBA also influenced the stronger shoot growth and the development
of acrobasal type of the rooting system and induced higher number of roots. These
parameters are very important for the quality and survival of the plants. The auxin
treatment had no effect on the final rooting percentage of cuttings and survival of
the cuttings, but they increased the per cent of rooted cuttings without callus.

Karthikeyan et al. (2006) observed that treatment of water soaking + sand

(3) + vermicompost (1) resulted in minimum days taken for germination (92.40),
days taken for first leaf emergence (102.30), maximum seedling height (58.33
cm), stem girth (5.52 cm), number of leaves (4.61), number of roots (7.67) root
length (32.01 cm) and percentage of germination (93.70) in coconut.

Singh et al. (2006) carried out experiment in Chhattisgarh on Fig (Ficus

carica). Application of 1500 ppm of IBA brought out significant response of all

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rooting variables like, days of first sprouting, number of buds, sprouts per cutting
and number of leaves per cutting. In semi hardwood cuttings throughout the
experimental period FYM + soil (1:1) media produced maximum sprouting, leaf
number and leaf size that was 15.50, 7.00 and 61.87 cm².

Gurjar and Patel (2007) reported the highest percentage of survival of

cuttings, number of sprouts per cutting, length of sprout, number of roots, leaves
per cutting, length and diameter of roots and survival percentage of rooted
cuttings was observed when hard wood cuttings of pomegranate were planted on a
media comprising of soil + sand + leaf mould.

Lone and Sofi (2007) studied the effect of IBA on rooting efficiency in
two clonal Malling apple rootstock M9 & M26 during 2004 and 2005. Influence
of the time of collection of the cuttings and IBA concentration (1500, 2000, 3000
ppm) were studied in respect of per cent survival, callus sprouting and
rhizogenesis. Significant variation existed for these parameters among the
rootstocks. Significantly increase in per cent survival, callusing, bud sprouting
and rhizogenesis was observed in M26 than M9 with the application of 2000 ppm
IBA.

Chhukit (2009) evaluated different rooting media combinations consisting

of cocopeat, vermicompost, forest leaf compost, sand and soil for rooting in
cuttings of kiwifruit. The results revealed that highest number of leaves per plant,
leaf area, shoot length and total biomass was recorded in the cuttings of kiwifruit
planted in sand + forest leaf compost + cocopeat (1:1:1).

Ali (2014) obtained results on effect of different media on root length,

shoot length and shoot dry weight. Experimental results have shown that, high
rooting percentage was achieved by semi-woody cuttings in sand with average of
20%, while the lowest percentage was obtained in loam and sawdust bed with
average of 6.66%. The high and the lowest number of shoot number of shoot was
achieved in soil loam, perlite and sand-perlite (1:1 v/v) 5.66, 2.66 and 3

8
respectively which show significant difference. Soil loam and sawdust, except for
shoot number and root diameter, had the lowest positive effect on guava rooting.
The highest rooting percentage, shoot length, dry and fresh weight of shoot was
achieved in sand.

Sharma et al. (2014) found that IBA 2500 ppm + girdling was considered
to be the best treatment which resulted in highest per cent rooting, number of
primary roots per cutting, primary root length, total root length, fresh and dry
weight of shoot, fresh and dry weight of root and root: shoot ratio. Whereas,
primary root length, shoot length, leaf number and average leaf area was found to
be maximum in IBA 2500 ppm + blanching. However, IBA 2000 ppm + girdling
gave highest primary root diameter and shoot diameter.

Negi et al. (2015) found that among IBA @ 1000, 2000 and 3000 ppm and
wounding treatments included i) basal split and ii) vertical incision. The highest
percentage of rooted cuttings (46.66%), number of main roots per cutting (15.67),
length of main roots (29.46 cm), diameter of main roots (3.84 mm), total root
length (5.37 m), fresh weight of roots (9.17 g), dry weight of roots (4.90 g), length
of main shoot (125.30 cm), diameter of main shoot (171.8 mm), fresh weight of
shoots (80.67 g), dry weight of shoots (45.83 g), shoot to root ratio (0.106), total
number of leaves (134.7) and leaf area (43.01 cm 2) were recorded in the cuttings
treated with IBA 2000 ppm + Basal split.

Rani et al. (2015) observed that among all the media compositions i.e.
vermiculite + FYM (1:1), perlite + FYM (1:1), sand + FYM (1:1), vermiculite +
sand + FYM (1:1:1) and perlite + sand + FYM (1:1:1), vermiculite + sand + FYM
(1:1:1) showed maximum rooted cuttings (78.69%), number of new shoots per
plant (10.42), plant height (26.49 cm), number of leaves per plant (25.08) and
stem thickness (1.14 cm) while, cuttings planted in perlite + sand + FYM (1:1:1)
took minimum days to sprout (8.95) during 15th to 21st of August. Therefore it
may be concluded that guava cuttings planted in soil media of Vermiculite + sand

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+ FYM (1:1:1) of August was found to be best suitable media for guava
propagation.

Raut et al. (2015) studied the effect of different rooting media and found
that soil + cocopeat recorded maximum shoot and root growth, success per cent,
survival percentage of rooted cuttings and shoot dry matter per cent. The
combined effect of IBA concentrations and different rooting media indicated that,
hardwood cuttings treated with treatment combination 2500 ppm IBA with
rooting media soil + cocopeat recorded significant performance for maximum
length and number of sprout, sprouting per cent, success per cent, survival
percentage of rooted cuttings and shoot dry matter percentage.

Kareem et al. (2016) recorded that IBA (4000 ppm) showed highest results
in terms of days to sprout (22.00), sprouted cuttings (40.11), sprouting per cent
(68.22), average number of roots per cutting (31.65), average root length (31.65)
and survival per cent (57.82) respectively.

Wani et al. (2016) conducted an experiment in a mist chamber to study the

effect of different plant growth regulators comprising of five concentrations each
and in combination on rooting and shooting parameters of MM106. Among the
various treatments used in the experiment it was found that IBA 1000 ppm gave
the best response in respect of all the parameters studied viz. maximum number of
roots/cutting (3.93), girth of the thickest root (1.38 mm), length of the longest root
(4.47 cm), percentage of rooting/cutting (45.37), survival percentage of rooted
cuttings (60.00), number of leaves/cutting (2.27), number of secondary
branches/cutting (1.87) and number of leaves/secondary branch (4.60) and
minimum was with control.

Singh and Rattanpa (2017) observed plant raised through hard wood
cuttings of fig (Ficus carica L.) cv. Brown Turkey. The higher concentration of
IBA (1250 ppm) resulted in maximum rooting (81.60%) followed by 68.60,
64.40, 64.20 per cent in 1000, 750 and 500 ppm IBA, respectively. Sprouting was

10
earlier (14.40 days from transplanting) in treatment IBA @ 1250 ppm followed by
16.60 days in 1000 ppm treatment. The maximum mean plant height (67.20 cm)
was recorded in treatment 4 (IBA @ 1250) followed by 48.00 and 30.80 cm in
treatment 3 (IBA @ 1000 ppm) and 2 (IBA @ 750 ppm), respectively. Average
number of leaves per plant (14.60) and number of roots (67.20) were recorded
highest in treatment IBA @ 1250 ppm followed by 11.80 and 36.40 number of
leaves and roots per plant in IBA @ 1000 ppm, respectively. Significantly higher
fresh and dry weights of leaves, shoots and roots per plant were recorded in IBA
@ 1250 ppm treatment.

Rajkumar et al. (2017) found that the most efficient growing medium for
root and shoot development in stem cuttings of pomegranate cv. Phule Arakta
under arid conditions. The cuttings were treated with 2500 ppm of IBA (3-Indole
butyric acid) using quick dip technique (for 5 seconds) and planted in five rooting
substrates i.e. sand, vermiculite, perlite, cocopeat and garden soil (control) alone
and in combination at 1:1 (v/v). The response of perlite + vermiculite medium was
best in terms of rooting (82.33 per cent), number of roots (32.67 per cutting), fresh
and dry weight of roots (0.61 mg and 2.08 mg), shoots per cutting (80.33) and
survival (76.0 per cent) than the other medium used. Vermiculite + Coco peat 1:1
(v/v) combination also resulted in rooting in more than 80 per cent of cuttings
whereas cuttings raised in garden soil and sand showed very low rooting. Based
on the findings, it appears that Perlite + vermiculite 1:1 (v/v) and vermiculite +
cocopeat may be appropriate alternatives to the conventionally used substrate, i.e.,
garden soil for the better rooting and establishment of pomegranate cultivar
‘Phule Arakta’ cuttings.

Sukhjit kaur (2017) reported that hardwood cuttings of Flordaguard peach

treated with 3000 ppm of IBA for 12 minutes significantly took the minimum
number of days to sprouting (7.05), rooting (6.0) with highest sprouting
percentage (98.45%), survival percentage (90.55%), plant height (195.45 cm),
plant girth (10.50 cm), number of branches (13.50), number of leaves (260.4), leaf

11
length (19.55cm), leaf breadth (4.12cm), leaf weight (2.0 gm), per cent rooting
(94.45%), number of roots (75.83), root length (38.0 cm), root girth (0.98 cm) and
root weight (13.50 g). Therefore, the application of 3000 ppm IBA was found to
be best in terms of rooting, survival and vegetative growth of hardwood cuttings
of Flordaguard peach (Prunus persica L. Batch).

Narula et al. (2018) recorded that IBA@2000 ppm quick dip was found to
be significant in improving the shoot and root characters in cuttings with
maximum shoot length (16.87 cm), average shoot girth (0.46 cm), shoot number
(4.22), fresh weight of shoots (6.82), dry weight of shoots (1.43 g), leaf number
(154.28), average leaf area (305.79 cm2), root number (44.90), average root length
(10.88 cm), length of longest root (13.5 cm), fresh weight of roots (1.52 g), dry
weight of roots (1.09). While the cuttings treated with slow dip of IBA 150 ppm
exhibited significant survival percentage (77.00%), percentage of rooted cuttings
(74.33%) and sprouting per cent (75.17%).

Siddiqua et al. (2018) reported that stem cuttings of Dragon fruit treated
with different plant growth regulators showed the least number of days taken for
root initiation (14.54), the maximum values recorded with respect to percentage of
rooting (57.75%), length of the longest root (23.07 cm), average number of roots
per cuttings (46.88), average length of roots per cuttings (12.41 cm), root volume
(1.97 cc), root diameter (1.47 mm), fresh weight and dry weight of root (2.28 g
and 0.67 g, respectively). The less number of days taken for first sprouting (7.34),
sprouting percentage (58.67), number of sprouts per cutting (2.43), length of shoot
(17.45 cm), diameter of shoot (3.53 mm), maximum fresh and dry weight of shoot
(56.66 g and 11.12 g respectively) and maximum root to shoot ratio (0.67) was
recorded in cutting treated with IBA 7000 ppm.

Dhand et al. (2019) observed IBA (2500 ppm) proved to be the best in
terms of minimum days to first sprouting (23.15), maximum sprouting percentage
(69.72%), survival percentage (47.29%), number of roots per cutting (5.00), root
length (11.50 cm) while maximum number of shoots per cutting (4.66) and

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average shoot diameter (2.11 cm) were indicated in the cuttings treated with
sucrose (2500 ppm) respectively.

Ghani et al. (2019) conducted an experiment comprising different type of

media and their combination viz. sand, sand + FYM, sand + cocopeat, sand +
perlite, sand + vermiculite, sand + soil + FYM, sand + soil + cocopeat, sand + soil
+ perlite, sand + soil + vermiculite. Result revealed that maximum number of root
(8.66) and number of leaves (24.56) at 120 DAP were recorded in sand + soil +
cocopeat. While length of primary shoot (27.14 cm), length of primary root (28.43
cm) survival percentage (60.00%) benefit: cost ratio (8.30) at 120 DAP, Days
taken to start sprouting (17.66) and days taken to 50% sprouting (19.96) were
recorded in treatment combination of sand+ soil + FYM. Therefore it may be
concluded that the P. granatum L. cuttings planted in sand + soil + FYM (1:1:1)
was found to be best suitable media for pomegranate vegetative propagation.

Mehra et al. (2019) observed the significant effects on number of days

taken for sprouting, number of sprout per cutting, shoot length (cm), shoot
diameter (mm), number of leaves, leaf area (cm2), length of longest root, per cent
of rooted cuttings, per cent survival cuttings and cost benefit (C:B) ratio.
Minimum number of days taken to sprouting (8.07 days) was recorded on and
maximum number of sprout (7.57), length of shoot (11.27 cm), diameter of sprout
(4.85 mm), number of leaves (11.80), leaf area (8.86 cm 2), rooted cutting
(61.10%), survival cutting (64.40%), length of root (8.00 cm) were recorded on
1:2 soil and FYM + 6000 ppm IBA. 1:2 soil and FYM showed significant result
among most of the parameters observed.

Rajamanickam et al. (2019) revealed that cuttings treated with IBA of

2500 ppm recorded the highest values of all the traits viz. success per cent
(75.50%), least number of days for sprouting (9.79 days), number of sprouts per
cuttings (4.20), number of leaves (43.52), plant height (49.25 cm), shoot length
(31.6 cm), root length (3.24 cm), fresh root weight (2.1 g) and dry root weight
(1.85 g) followed by 2000 ppm of IBA. Control (without IBA treatment) observed

13
the lowest values of the traits like success per cent of cuttings (20.80%), longest
days for sprouting (12.50 days), number of sprouts per cuttings (1.40), number of
leaves (22.20), plant height (28.25 cm), shoot length (18.80 cm), root length (0.50
cm), fresh root weight (0.79 g) and dry root weight (0.68 g). Thus conclusion of
the present study, semi hard wood cuttings treated with IBA 2500 ppm was the
best method for mass multiplication of pomegranate.

2.2 Effect of growth hormone on rooting

Various naturally occurring compounds possessing hormonal properties

are effective for root initiation. All classes of plant growth regulators like auxins,
gibberellins, cytokinin, ethylene and abscisic acid as well as ancillary compound
such as growth retardants, inhibitors, polyamines and phenolic substances
influence root initiation, growth and development either directly or indirectly.
Among these, auxins have the greatest effect on rooting of cuttings. Rooting
potentiality of apple rootstocks have been reported to vary according to
endogenous content of inhibitors and promoters, however, the inhibitors were
stronger in difficult-to-root species (Nanda, 1975).

Konarli (1974) reported that the dipping of basal end of MM104, MM106
and MM111 cuttings in IBA at 2500 ppm up to 2.5 cm from base or else merely
moistened with the solution, resulted in similar response of rooting percentage of
cuttings. However, cuttings base dipped to 2.5 cm resulted in higher number of
roots per cutting showing favorable response in propagation.

Tustin (1976) found a positive relationship between rooting in M12 apple

rootstock cuttings and an endogenous IAA like substance.

Casavela et al. (1977) found that IAA and NAA at different concentrations
(4000, 6000 and 8000 ppm) did not influence rooting. MM106, M26 and Quince-
A rootstocks treated with IBA 1500 ppm, gave maximum rooting (80%) for the
apple rootstocks and Quince-A (92%).

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 Pandy and Pathak (1979) while studying anatomical basis of rooting
potentiality in apple hardwood cuttings, observed that forced cuttings of apple
clonal rootstock treated with IBA 2500 ppm and with adequate bottom heat,
rooted better than unforced ones, because in forced cuttings there was only a
single layer of sclerenchymatous ring, whereas the unforced cuttings contained
invariably a double layer.

Pontikis et al. (1979) observed high level of rooting in unrooted stool

shoots of M27 apple rootstock when treated with IBA. IBA was applied between
0.5 and 0.8 cm on the untrimmed base of apple shoots for 5 second in early
January or in early March gave the best results.

Randhawa and Nobumasa (1980) reported that Malus prunifolia cuttings

when treated with IBA 2500 ppm gave highest rooting percentage, number and
length of roots per cutting and maximum percentage of bud break. However, the
cuttings of M9, M26 and Starking Delicious failed to root.

Pandey and Pathak (1981) while studying the biochemical basis of rooting
potentiality in apple hardwood cuttings found that forced cuttings rooted better
than the unforced ones when treated with IBA. In another experiment, they also
found that application of IBA and cinnamic acid, each at 2500 ppm induced
rooting in MM115, MM104, M25, M2 and MM109 apple rootstock cuttings.

Pandey and Upadhyay (1981) reported highest rooting, survival

percentage, number and length of roots per cutting were obtained by treating
peach hardwood cuttings with IBA 2000 ppm.

Nyomora and Manzara (1982) observed that juvenile cuttings of apple and
peach rooted better than adult cuttings, when each cutting was treated with IBA.

Howard et al. (1983) reported an increased aeration of the rooting

medium, through increased water suction, decreased cutting death at super
optimal IBA concentration and increased rooting. In addition, high compost

15
temperature enhanced the response to sub-optimal and optimal IBA
concentrations.

Howard (1985) applied IBA in granular form to leafless winter cuttings of

MM111 and Myroblan rootstock of apple and plum respectively and observed that
IBA 2500 mg kg-1 gave the highest rooting percentage and number of primary
roots per cuttings.

Purohit and Shekharappa (1985) treated pomegranate hardwood cuttings

with different IBA concentration and found that highest survival percentage,
number and length of roots and number of shoots in cuttings was maximum, when
treated with 5000 ppm IBA.

Burak and Oz (1987) obtained a variable rooting per cent (0.0-53.0) in

cuttings of Mazzard F12/1 rootstock by applying different IBA treatments.

Joshi et al. (1987) recorded best rooting with the application of IBA 2500
ppm during April in MM106 (85%), Merton 793 (85%), Merton 779 (60%) and
MM110 (60%).

Ishtiaq et al. (1989) obtained maximum number of roots per cutting in

peach rootstock cultivars Peshawar local and Nemaguard with IBA.

Sharma and Aier (1989) studied response of IBA treatments in four plum
cv. Santa Rosa, Beauty, Greengage, Early Transparent Gage and observed that
Santa Rosa gave the highest rooting percentage, number of primary and secondary
roots per cuttings, length and diameter of roots and field survival when treated
with IBA at 2000 mg l-1 during summer and 3000 mg l-1 during dormant season.

Gregory et al. (1990) while studying rooting and survival potential of more
than 400 genotypes of prunus hardwood cuttings, treated with 2000 ppm IBA,
found that cuttings from cultivars Sand cherry (Section microcerasus) and peach
(Section amygdalus) averaged 28 to 54 per cent lower survival than European and
Japanese plums.

16
 Hansen (1990) reported that rapid production of apple rootstocks through
softwood cuttings, 1.0 per cent IBA talc was more effective in softwood cuttings
of MM106 and M26 apple clonal rootstock as compared to 0.5 and 2.0 per cent
IBA talc. Cuttings which were treated with 1.0 per cent IBA produced more
number of roots per cutting and shoot length was found to be inversely related
with IBA concentrations i.e. concentration of 0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 per cent produced
longer shoots (20, 14 and 10 mm, respectively).

Suriyapananont (1990) reported that apple rootstock viz. MM106,

Marubakaida N-1 and Indonesian treated with 4 root promoting chemicals (IAA,
IBA, NAA and 2,4,5-T). MM106 gave significantly better rooting with IBA than
any other chemical and Marubakaido N-1 cuttings with IBA significantly
increased rooting percentage and quality of roots that were formed.

Sun and Bassuk (1991) observed that in apple clonal rootstock MM106,
highest rooting percentage and root number was recorded with the application of
500 to 1000 ppm IBA).

Abd EL-Aziz et al. (1992) recorded the highest rooting in hardwood

cuttings of apple clonal rootstock MM106 when treated with 2000 ppm IBA.

Bosten et al. (1992) obtained maximum rooting success (41.7%) in young

cuttings of apricot cv. Hacihaliloglu when treated with 3000 ppm IBA.

Muthoo et al. (1992) reported highest percentage of rooted shoots in

cherry clones by treating with IBA at 10,000 ppm.

Shawky et al. (1993) reported that best rooting was obtained in semi
hardwood cuttings of apple clonal rootstock MM106 after treating with IBA 2000
ppm.

El-Sabrout and El-Shazly (1994) while studying propagation of MM106

apple rootstock through cuttings, recorded the highest rooting (52.25%) with basal
cuttings taken from girdled shoots and dipped in 2500 ppm IBA.

17
 Badshah et al. (1995) concluded that IBA 3000 ppm was the best
concentration for rooting in M26 and M27 apple rootstock cuttings as it resulted
in highest sprouting, survival percentage shoot length, number of roots and root
length per plant.

Ramesh Chand (1999) recorded best rooting with the application of IBA
2500 ppm in M7, M9 and MM111 rootstocks.

Al-Obeed (2000) observed maximum rooting percentage (62.9%) in guava

cuttings treated with IBA + catechol each at 1000 ppm, followed by 59.6 per cent
rooting in cuttings treated with NAA + catechol at 1000 ppm and lowest (19.8%)
in the untreated cuttings.

Rufato and Kersten (2000) showed that root length and root number of
peach cutting cv. Esmeralda and BR2 increased by application of IBA.

Ercisli et al. (2002) reported that in kiwifruit cv. Hayward rooting per cent,
number of roots per cutting and root length increased when cuttings were treated
with IBA 6000 ppm in perlite medium had longer roots as compared to other
media.

Tewfik (2002) conducted an experiment with Nemaguard peach rootstock

cuttings to determine best IBA concentration and best media that contribute for
better rooting per cutting. IBA treatment at 6000 ppm gave the highest rooting
with a mixture of coarse sand + peat moss rooting medium.

Ahmed et al. (2003) while studying propagation of three imported peach

rootstocks viz. Hansen, GF-655 and GF-677 with IBA (Indole butyric acid) at four
regimes viz. 2500, 3000, 3500 and 4000 ppm. GF-655 rootstock showed a
consistent response for rooting final survival of transplanted cuttings. The best
dose for propagation of GF-655 rootstock through cuttings was 2500 ppm IBA,
while the other two rootstocks were not responsive to IBA even up to 4000 ppm.

Ercisli (2003) studied that application of IBA alone to the stem cuttings
and observed significant increase in rooting percentage in kiwifruit cv. Hayward.

18
IBA when applied during winters in the range of 0, 2000, 4000, 6000 ppm
resulted in maximum rooting per cent with application of IBA 4000 and 6000
ppm.

Oliveira et al. (2003) found that application of IBA 1500 ppm to semi-
hardwood cuttings of six peach cv. BR-3, Chula, Lora, Eldorado, Marli and
Sinvelo increased rooting percentage.

Rana et al. (2004) reported that middle portion of the cuttings in kiwi fruit
plants of the current season growth in active growth stage (July-Aug.) summer
cuttings and dormant stage (December-January) winter cuttings, when treated
with 4500 ppm IBA, increased rooting percentage and also root number per
cutting.

Sharma et al. (2005) while studying the effect of IBA at 0, 1000, 2000 and
3000 ppm on the production of apple clonal rootstock by semi-hardwood cuttings
MM106 which produced the highest number of new leaves, followed by M9 and
M2. IBA at 3000 ppm produced the highest rooting with good quality roots in
terms of rooting per cent, days to rooting, primary root number and primary root
length and increased the emergence of new leaves in apple rootstock.

Srivastava et al. (2006) recorded the maximum number of rooted shoots,

average number of roots, length of longest root and rooted sprouts with ringing of
shoot bases + IBA 2500 ppm in apple rootstock MM106 through trench layering.

Lal et al. (2007) studied that the different concentrations of IBA, NAA and
its combination significantly increased rooting percentage, average number of
roots per shoot, average root length per shoot and per cent survival of rooted stool
shoots in field over control. The treatment of IBA 7500 ppm gave maximum
rooting percentage (96.67%), average number of roots per shoot (46.93), average
root length (8.45 cm) and survival percentage (75%) after transplanting in the
field.

19
 Lone and Sofi (2007) observed the effect of IBA concentrations (1500,
2000, 3000 ppm) on rooting efficiency and influence of time of collection of two
clonal Malling apple rootstock viz. M9 and M26. Cuttings were planted in three
stages of growth viz. second week of June, second week of July and second week
of August. Best results were found with the application of 2000 ppm IBA from
the cuttings that were collected at second week of June.

Ersoy et al. (2009) recorded the highest rooting ratio from control group
(46%) in 95-100% humidity level; the lowest one from 3500 ppm IBA dose
application (17%) in 85-90% relative humidity level. The highest rooting surface
length was found in 1500 ppm hormone dose (0.53 cm) in 95-100% and 2500
ppm IBA dose application (0.42 cm) in 85-90% humidity level. With respect to
root numbers, the highest value was from 1500 ppm IBA application (1.29
number/cutting) in 95-100% relative humidity and 500 and 2500 ppm IBA doses
(1.04 number/cutting) in 85-90% relative humidity level. The longest root was
obtained from control group (2.03 cm) in 95-100% humidity level and 500 ppm
IBA hormone dose (1.80 cm) in 85-90% humidity level. The shortest root was
obtained from 2500 ppm IBA hormone dose application (0.09 cm) in 85-90%
humidity level. The highest root branching value was obtained from 1500 ppm
hormone dose application (0.88 number/cutting) in 95-100% humidity level.

Karakurt et al. (2009) conducted an experiment to evaluate the effect of

single, double and triple treatments of IBA, bacteria and carbohydrates, which
may affect the rooting performance of hardwood cuttings of MM106. Three
different concentrations of IBA (1000, 2000, 4000 ppm) along with PGPR was
applied. The result indicated that double and triple combination of IBA, bacteria
and carbohydrates were more effective in increasing rooting capacity and better
quality roots.

Tajbakhsh et al. (2009) evaluated the promotion of callus formation and

rooting in hardwood stem cuttings of Persian walnut (Juglans regia L.), hazelnut
(C. maxima) and apple (Malus pumila) by taking cuttings every two weeks from

20
December 2001 to November 2002. Cuttings were treated with indol-3-butyric
acid (IBA) at 3000 ppm for 6 seconds, placed in a greenhouse under intermittent
mist and evaluated after 8 weeks. There were three replication of each species and
sampling date. The results showed that the rooting, with rapid and complete callus
formation was observed in late autumn, winter and early spring. The callus
formation and rooting percentages in December in Persian walnut were 80% and
6%, whereas in hazelnut 49 and 36% and in apple, 43 and 31.5%, respectively.

Dvin et al. (2011) carried out an experiment on rooting response of

hardwood cuttings with a view to determine the most suitable IBA concentration
and rooting medium for MM111 hardwood cuttings. They recorded maximum
rooting percentage (37.03%) and root number (11.33) with 2500 ppm IBA in
cocopeat + perlite as rooting medium.

Pandit et al. (2011) carried out a study to evaluate the effect of a range of
Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentrations of 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 and 8000
ppm on the rooting capacity of semi hardwood cuttings of two clonal apple
rootstocks, MM106 and MM111. Highest rooting per cent, maximum number and
length of primary roots were obtained with 3000 ppm IBA with both rootstocks.

Verma and Chauhan (2015) observed that IBA 2500 ppm treatment
recorded highest rooting percentage, number of primary roots, length and
diameter of primary roots, fresh and dry weight of roots recording 46.67%, 4.60,
28.60 cm, 2.63 mm, 2.89 g and 1.83 g, respectively in apple clonal rootstock
Merton 793.

2.3 Effect of rooting media on rooting

Various scientists have studied the effect of rooting media, plant growth
hormone, quality of plant cuttings etc. on number of sprouts, number and area of
leaves and root numbers with a view to find easier and economic method of plant
propagation. Generally an ideal rooting media must provide sufficient porosity to
allow drainage, aeration and water holding capacity (Hartmann and Kester, 2007).

21
 Chatterjee and Mukherjee (1980) carried out an experiment on full grown
trees of Jack fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) to observe the effect of invigoration,
etiolation and different media on success of rooting in cuttings. The best result
was obtained with invigorated shoots under etiolation and 5000 ppm IBA
treatment. Vermiculite proved best with 86% rooting and sand proved poor with
70% rooting.

Jawanda et al. (1980) conducted an experiments on almond cuttings taken

from different shoot portions showed that sub apical cuttings gave maximum
number of roots (4.66) and longest root length (20.73 cm) compared with other
two types of cuttings. The interaction between type of cutting and IBA
concentration showed that sub apical cuttings treated with 100 ppm IBA produced
maximum number of roots (12.33) and longest root length (56.7 cm).

Lanka and Das (1981) studied the effects of IBA and rooting media on the
rooting of litchi stem cuttings under mist. These cuttings treated with IBA at
3000, 6000 and 9000 ppm were planted in five different media. Only cuttings in
the month of April and September rooted. The highest rooting (32.8%) was
obtained in April cuttings treated with IBA at 3000 ppm and the best media was
second grade perlite 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

Shelton and Moore (1981) studied the rooting media for high bush blue
berry cuttings (Vaccinium conymbosum) cv. Blue berry, Blue crop and Collins
were planted in fourteen types of media on 12 th April. Rooting of the plants was
assessed in the autumn. The highest rooting (84.2%) was obtained on vermiculite
(pH 6.2) followed by 2:1 peat sand mixture with pH 4.4 (77.9%) and 1:1 peat sand
(76.5%) with pH 4.6.

Gemma (1982) reported a natural rooting cofactor found in hakuto peach

cuttings and reached maximum levels 4-7 days before roots formed. The level of
this co-factor was greater in cuttings treated with IBA than in untreated cuttings.
Extracts from fresh leaves of Prunus passiflora (Pseudocerasus) (easy to root)

22
promoted root formation on P. pauciflora cuttings prepared with oblique cut at
base rooted better (7.8%) than horizontal base/peeled or other ways (8.66%).
Rooting in Kanumassuini medium, vermiculite and river sand was 54.0, 30.8 and
19.2 per cent respectively. Rooting in peat moss, field soil, clay and pearl was low
3.8% or nil.

Munson (1982) recorded greatest number of shoots (100) per container

with best quality of root system, in peat-perlite medium, followed by sand (68)
and peat : sand (57) in M7 rootstock on containerized layering. No correlation was
found between stock plant stem diameter and the number of rooted shoots
produced.

Habajova and Jurcak (1984) found soft wood cuttings of red currant and
apple rootstock J-TE-B rooted best when taken on 23 June and rooted in peat :
perlite : sand (1:1:1) medium.

Lal and Danu (1985) studied the rooting of cuttings of two varieties of
carnation in seven different rooting media viz. (1) sand (2) vermiculite (3)
charcoal (4) moss grass (5) ½ sand + ½ moss grass (6) ½ sand + ½ vermiculite
and (7) ½ vermiculite + ½ charcoal. Sand with higher pH 8.02 and low water
holding capacity (11.7%) was found to be best rooting media for the induction of
roots in cuttings of carnation. It was also observed that the higher water holding
capacity of all the other media with higher or lower pH values had adversely
affected the rooting per cent.

Turovskaya (1986) observed that the soft wood cuttings of clonal apple
rootstock (54-118, PB 9, MM 106 and 58-69) rooted equally well (up to 97.8%)
under mist in peat blocks or peat pots filled with peat + sand mixture (1:1). The
yield (per unit area) of cuttings rooted in blocks was 2.7 times more than that of
cuttings rooted in substrate (beds) and the yield of those in substrate was 1.4 times
more than that of cuttings in peat pots.

23
 Kosina (1989) reported that IBA treated cuttings most of the nine cultivars
of peach taken between 15th and 25th June rooted successfully (88.9%) in peat :
sand (1:3) substrate under mist.

Kukava (1989) reported that the cuttings 15-20 cm in length prepared from
1 or 2 years old growth on stock plant were rooted in early August in 5 media viz.
1) soil 2) soil + peat 3) sand 4) soil + sand 5) river silt. Rootings in Kraznozen soil
and in silt in a one meter wide polythene layered mulch trench gave the best
results viz. 33 and 60% rooting, respectively.

Gomma et al. (1989) reported that peat or sawdust media favoured layer
production in M27, while root development was best in peat. No significant
difference between media was observed for the production of MM111 rootstock
layers.

Deol and Uppal (1990) studied the effect of different rooting media on
rooting and growth of hardwood and semi hardwood cuttings of pomegranate
(Punica granatum). The cuttings were planted in 8 types of rooting media (soil,
soil + FYM. soil + sand, soil + sawdust, soil + FYM + sand, soil + FYM +
sawdust, soil + FYM + sand + sawdust or river silt). Highest rooting success
(76.66%) and survival (64.99%) were obtained with cuttings planted in river silt.
Cuttings planted in soil + FYM showed the best shoot mid root growth.

Suriyapananot (1990) observed burnt rice hull + sand (1:1), coir dust +
sand (1:1) and burnt rice hull, nil resulted in excellent root formation in apple
rootstock Maribakaido N-l cuttings and fine sand resulted in poor roots. He also
found that burnt rice hull medium resulted in good root formation in Japanese
apricot cuttings and had the highest rooting score. While coir dust, burned rice
hull + fine sand (1:1) and coir dust + tine sand (1:1) all resulted in intermediate
root development but fine sand resulted in poor root development

Balakrishna and Bhattacharjee (1991) reported six different ornamental

trees propagated by stem cuttings. The cuttings were planted in pots filled with

24
different media like soil, sand and vermiculite and treated with 6000 ppm IBA.
Maximum percentage of rooting and root numbers was obtained at sand that was
80 and 24%, respectively.

Ferrer et al. (1991) obtained highest percentage of rooting (84.9%) in sand

followed by soil (37.7%) and soil + sand mix (27.8%).

El-Aziz et al. (1992) recorded best rooting for hardwood cuttings of apple
rootstock MM106 treated with 2000 ppm IBA and planted in sand + peatmoss
(1:1) or peatmoss + vermiculite (1:1). The best rooting of softwood cuttings of
apple rootstock MM106 was found in the treatment of IBA 2000 ppm and planted
in sand + peat moss or perlite + vermiculite (1:1).

Hu et al. (1993) used media comprised different combinations of ash,

perlite, yellow soil mud and yellow sandy soil. Ash (from the husk of grains) gave
the best results followed by perlite. Red beauty plum, Cerasus tomentosa,
pomegranate and Fortunella gave 87, 94, 98 and 100% rooting, respectively.

Gills and Daluta (1996), reported best date of cutting collected and
planting of peach was 15th to 23rd November. IBA 1000 ppm + ethrel 50 ppm
induced highest percentage rooting (74.3%) with more number of roots (23.59)
and also produced the largest root (22.78 cm) per cutting.

Bhagat et al. (1998) carried out an experiment in Horticulture nursery of

BAU, Kanke, Ranchi during 1991-93. Two hundred number air layers of Sardar
guava were treated with IBA, NAA and IBA + NAA each 1500 ppm, 3000 ppm
and 4500 ppm. Maximum root numbers and length of longest root was observed
in IBA 4500 ppm that was 14.8 cm and 13.4 cm, respectively.

Sangcheol et al. (1998) examined the effect of mounding material (perlite,

gravelly rock fragments, vermiculite, sawdust, compost and soil) on the rooting of
M9. Gravelly rock fragments alone or in combination with compost were the most
effective mounding material for M9 (33-33.5 roots produced). Mounding with
vermiculite or perlite was reported to reduce the growth of underground parts.

25
 Athani et al. (1999) reported that treatment with vermicompost
combination resulted in least number of days for shooting of banana plants after
their planting.

Ramesh Chand (1999) observed that M9 and MM111 rootstocks gave

better rooting, higher number of rooted suckers and total root length when saw
dust was used as a mounding. While, M7 rootstock gave higher number of rooted
suckers, number of main roots and higher total root length per sucker with soil +
FYM as mounding medium. Use of organic substrates such as soil, peat, sawdust
and bark improved the root quality of all the rootstocks of apple, while the use of
peat, resulted in the longest and thickest rootstocks.

Kishore (2001) conducted an experiment to observe the rooting of

hardwood cuttings in sand and saw dust rooting substrate. Observation on the
rooting behavior of six kiwi fruit varieties revealed that sawdust was superior
rooting medium for root initiation but subsequent root and shoot development was
better in sand. The cultivars varied from each other only with respect to the
magnitude of the rooting like IBA 3000 ppm and were found to be suitable
concentration for rooting.

Koptowski (2001) studied the effect of organic substrates (soil, peat,

sawdust and bark) on the root quality and rooting of vegetative apple rootstocks
(M9, M26, P60 and MM106) in Poland during 1996-2000. All the organic
materials used improved the quality of all the rootstocks, with the use of peat
resulting in the longest and thickest rootstocks. The use of sawdust resulted in the
highest total number of rooted stems. Rootstocks mounded-up with sawdust had
the longest rooted parts with the highest number of roots.

Shirol et al. (2001) observed the effect of different rooting media such as
red soil, sand, vermicompost (VC), potting mixture, red soil + VC (1:1), sand +
VC (1:1), VC + compost (1:1), compost, compost + sand (1:1) and compost + red
soil (1:1)) on the rooting of tip cuttings of dwarf poinsettia (Euphorbia

26
leucocephala). The highest rooting percentage was observed in VC + sand (1:1)
medium (67%), followed by vermicompost alone (63%). The highest primary root
length was observed in vermicompost medium

Barman and Rajini (2003) reported the effect of potting media on rooting
in keikis. One year old keikis were dipped for 10 seconds in 2000 mg l-1 of IBA
and planted in 14 different potting media. Maximum rooting percentage was
obtained in both soil and soil + sand + FYM + rice husk i.e., 93.33%. Maximum
primary and secondary root numbers was noted in sand and soil i.e., 9.93 and
20.40 respectively. Maximum root length (8.10 cm) was obtained in soil + sand +
rice husk.

Singh and Nair (2003) reported the effect of rooting media on root
formation in cuttings of ornamental plants, planted in red soil, sand and compost
in the ratio of 1:2:1, 1:1:2 and 2:1:1. Maximum root number and root length was
observed in media red soil + sand + compost (1:1:1).

Stanica et al. (2003) studied effect of NAA (2,000-3,000 ppm) on the

cuttings of Actinidia deliciosa and Actinidia arguta varieties. Composed rooting
substrates, double layers and mixed, with: wood flour + perlite; wood compost +
perlite and cotton waste + perlite were used. Hot water was used as heating agent
in a closed circuit. The rooting percentage and the quality of formed roots were
strongly influenced by species, variety, cutting moment, substrate type used and
basal and atmospheric temperature.

Lakra (2004) obtained maximum root number (11.90) in leaf mould + sand
while FYM + soil (1:1) had maximum root length (11.18 cm) which was
significantly superior to all treatments in case of passion fruit.

Correia et al. (2005) found that the guava rootstocks ‘Ogawa’ produced
maximum plant height (30.2 cm), stem diameter (5.3 mm), shoot dry matter mass
(5.7 g), root dry matter mass (3.0 g) and number of leaves (14.5) when grown in
the vermiculite + vermicompost substrate.

27
 Gerakakis et al. (2005) evaluated rooting media; I. Control (Sand), II.
(Perlite: Peat: Sand: Silt) (1:1:1:1), III. (Perlite: Peat: Sand: Silt) (1:2:1:2), IV.
(Perlite: Peat: Sand: Silt) (1:1:2:2), V. (Perlite: Peat: Sand: Silt) (0:0:1:1) and VI.
(Perlite: Peat: Sand: Silt) (1:0:1:1). Vegetative growth characteristics were
determined by studying per cent survival rate, callus development and rooting.
While, Ayvalik cuttings formed both callus and roots, dormant cuttings formed
only callus. The highest callus formation (70%) was observed on Ayvalik cuttings
(1 node) taken in May in 1:0:1:1 rooting media, but the highest rooting (40%) was
observed on cuttings of three nodes in the same date and media. In Dormant, the
highest callus was formed on cuttings (3 nodes) in May in 1:2:1:2 media.

Anilkumar et al. (2007) reported that in preliminary trials on the sprouting

of cuttings of selected medicinal plants revealed the superior performance of
enriched coirpith-vermicompost in enhancing the sprouting percentage (100%)
and it modulated the rhizosphere for promoting the activity of bioinoculants
which are now widely used in organic farming.

Tehranifar et al. (2007) studied that the vegetative growth including

runner, leaf and crown production of a number of strawberry cultivars were higher
in media with peat and cocopeat compared with 100 per cent sand, perlite and in
cocopeat (40%) + perlite (60%), some cultivars produced the highest number of
fruits and yield per plant. The yield in substrates with peat or cocopeat was higher
than in substrates with, without peat or cocopeat.

Chhukit (2009) evaluated different rooting media combinations consisting

of cocopeat, vermicompost, forest leaf compost, sand and soil for rooting in
cuttings of kiwifruit. The results revealed that highest rooting (67.64%), number
of adventitious roots (16.67) length of longest root (30.63 m), total root length
(22.90 m) was recorded in the cuttings of kiwifruit planted in sand + forest leaf
compost + cocopeat (1:1:1).

28
 Dvin et al. (2011) conducted a study with the purpose of determining the
suitable IBA concentration and rooting media for MM111 hardwood cuttings. The
highest rooting percentage and root number was obtained in the concentration of
2500 ppm IBA and cocopeat + perlite medium, whereas the highest root length
was attained in 1500 ppm IBA and cocopeat + perlite medium.

Atak and Yalcin (2014) studied on different propagation units and media
on the rooting of hardwood and softwood (green) cuttings of Actinidia deliciosa
‘Hayward’. Different propagation units (hotbed, multichamber pot) and rooting
media (perlite, peat, cocopeat, cocopeat + perlite and peat + perlite) were tested.
Cocopeat + perlite mixture was the best medium for rooting of both hardwood and
softwood cuttings. The highest rooting rate (37.9%) was obtained in the hotbed
with hardwood cuttings collected 15 February. Cocopeat was the best rooting
medium (44.3%). For softwood cuttings the best results were obtained with
multichamber pots (plastic vials) with perlite as the propagation medium.

Dogan et al. (2016) conducted a study to investigate the effects of different

rooting media [perlite, perlite + sand (1:1), perlite + sand + soil (1:1:1)], different
Indole butyric acid (IBA) doses (control, 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 ppm) with
regard to rooting ratios, number of roots and root weights, 5BB rootstock yielded
better outcomes than 420A and 41B rootstocks. Compared to control treatment,
IBA treatments increased rooting ratio, number of roots, root length and root
weight of all three rootstocks. Among the rooting media, the best outcomes for
rooting ratio, root length and root weight were obtained from perlite medium and
the best results for number of roots were obtained from perlite + sand + soil
medium.

Rajkumar et al. (2016) carried out an experiment on planting of cuttings in

five rooting substrates i.e. sand, vermiculite, perlite, cocopeat and garden soil
(control). The maximum rooting and survival percentages were recorded in IBA
@ 2500 ppm with vermiculite substrate. Similarly, the maximum numbers of
shoots and roots per cutting as well as fresh and dry weights of roots were

29
recorded with IBA @ 2500 ppm in vermiculite. In contrast, IBA @ 2500 ppm in
combination with sand and perlite produced the maximum root length in cuttings.
Thus the findings suggested that dipping cuttings in 2500 ppm IBA and planting
in vermiculite was the most effective treatment for enhancing establishment,
survival and growth of pomegranate cv. ‘Phule Arakta’ cuttings.

Aghera and Makwana (2018) obtained maximum percentage of rooted

cutting (75.98%), length of roots (22.13 cm), fresh weight of roots (2.82 g), dry
weight of roots (1.84 g) per cutting and survival percentage (75.98%) at 90 DAP.
Among the factor media Soil + Sand (1:1) recorded significantly the maximum
percentage of rooted cutting (74.90%), length of roots (20.09 cm), fresh weight of
roots (2.37 g), dry weight of roots (1.26 g) per cutting and survival percentage
(74.90%) at 90 DAP. The interaction effect between the IBA and media were
found significant in parameters like; maximum percentage of rooted cutting
(75.70%), length of roots (23.73 cm), fresh weight of roots (2.98 g), dry weight of
roots (1.98 g) per cutting and survival percentage (82.86%) at 90 DAP were
recorded under IBA 2000 ppm and soil + sand (1:1) media treatment combination.
Cutting treated with IBA 2000 ppm and planted in soil + sand (1:1) media was
found better for the propagation of fig through cutting.

2.4 Effect of rooting media on success and survival of rooted cuttings

Singh and Singh (1973) studied the stem cutting of sweet lime and lemon
treated with IBA concentration of 1000, 2000 and 4000 ppm. Lemon cuttings
varieties Eureka and Seedless were planted in sand + compost and sweet lime
cuttings were planted five different media like sand, sand + compost, compost,
sand + sawdust and sand + soil. Maximum survival percentage (95.5%) was noted
at IBA 2000 ppm.

Chatterjee and Mukherjee (1980) carried out an experiment on full grown

trees of jack fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) to observe the effect of invigoration,
etiolation and different media on success of rooting and cuttings. The best result

30
was obtained with invigorated shoots under etiolation and 5000 ppm IBA
treatment. Out of the three media used for planting of cutting, vermiculite gave
the best (58%) survival after one year and sand proved to be the worst (43%
survival) after one year.

Shelton and Moore (1981) observed that the cuttings of the high bush blue
(Vaccinium corymbosum) cv. Blue ray, Blue crop and Collins were planted in 14
different striking media in April. Rooting, stem growth and marketability of the
plants were assessed in autumn. The highest percentage of marketable cuttings
was obtained on peat (65.5%) followed by two per cent peat/sand mixture i.e.,
64.30%.

Rao et al. (1988) studied the potting of rooted cuttings with or without the
polybag of vermiculite in which they had been rooted and hardening under
continuous or intermittent mist. The best results with regard to the percentage of
survival in pots and establishment in the field were obtained from potting with
polybags and hardening under intermittent mist.

Baghel and Saraswat (1989) reported that the river silt was the best media
for the maximum per cent of success (76.66%) as well as survival percentage
(64.99%) of pomegranate cuttings than other media.

Kosina (1989) reported that out of the “IBA treated” cuttings most of the 9
cultivars of peach taken between 15th and 25th June rooted successfully (88.9%)
in a peat: sand (1:3) substrate under mist. Cuttings were transplanted over
wintered in the peat beds in the open. After planting out in the nursery in the
spring growth depended on the weather.

Gregory et al. (1990) while studying rooting and survival potential of more
than 400 genotypes of Prunus hardwood cuttings, treated with 2000 ppm IBA,
found that cuttings from cultivar sand cherry (Section microcerasus) and peach
(Section amygdalus) averaged 28 to 54% lower survival rate than European and

31
Japanese plums indicating variability in rooting potential in different plant
species.

Balakrishna and Bhattacharjee (1991) reported that the cuttings of six

different ornamental trees planted in pots, filled with different media like soil,
sand and vermiculite and treated with 6000 ppm IBA gave maximum survival
percentage in sand that was 100%.

Nath (1992) reported that the leaf bud cuttings, leaf blade, petiole and a
short piece of stem bearing axillary buds taken from the apical shoot of lemon (C.
lemon) cv. Assam were treated with IBA (1000, 2000, 4000 ppm) and planted in
two rooting media (sand and soil media). Survival percentage of cuttings was
studied one month after transplanting in nursery bed. Highest percentage of
survival (100%) were recorded for cuttings treated with 3000 ppm IBA under soil
medium, while lowest survival was obtained in untreated cuttings.

Shukla and Bist (1994) reported that the success of clonal propagation of
pear rootstock species viz. Mehal and Patharnakh cuttings by applying lanolin
paste of IBA and NAA levels and their combinations at the base of 15-20 cm long
cuttings obtained from five year old mother trees. Survival of cuttings in Mehal
was greater than Patharnakh. The response of IBA levels was better than NAA
levels. The survival of Mehal cutting was maximum 77.3% when treated with
1000 ppm IBA, whereas the maximum success (67.7%) survival in Patharnakh
was observed when 500 ppm IBA was used. As such 1000 ppm IBA may be used
for clonal propagation of Patharnakh and Mehal rootstock of pear respectively.

Feroz et al. (1997) conducted an experiment to see the effect of growing

media and types of cutting on the success of sour cherry. The highest success rate
(79.1 and 80.2%), was found with the media containing 50% sand and 50% cow
dung followed by media containing soil : sand : cowdung (1:1:1). Cuttings from
the tip of shoot were the most successful (78.3-78.4%) followed by those from
middle part of shoots (77.1-77.6%).

32
 Lakara (2004) obtained maximum root number (11.90) in leaf mould +
sand (1:1) while FYM + soil (1:1) gave maximum root length (11.18 cm) which
was significantly superior to all other treatments. Maximum success percentage
(55%) in nursery and maximum field survival (85.3%) in semi-hard wood cutting
of passion fruit planted in the media FYM + soil (1:1).

Tsipouridis et al. (2006) reported about the influence of external factors

important for the rooting in the semi-hard wood and hard wood cuttings of peach:
Age: Eleven years old trees gave highest rooting percentage of 96.5% as
compared to one year old plant which gave rooting percentage of 72.5% on
immediate plantation of the cuttings. Cutting Length: Semi hard wood cuttings of
10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm and 25 cm. Gave rooting percentage of 46, 60, 74 and 52
respectively.

Lal et al. (2007) observed that the different concentrations of IBA, NAA
and its combination significantly increased rooting percentage, average number of
roots per shoot, average root length per shoot and per cent survival of rooted stool
shoots of guava. The maximum rooting percentage (96.6%), average number of
roots per shoot (46.93), average root length (8.45 cm) and survival percentage
(75%) were recorded in cuttings treated with IBA 7500 ppm.

Kumar et al. (2015) conducted an experiment consisted of ten treatment.

Out of these, the treatment 800 ppm IBA + garden soil + sand + vermicompost
(1:1:1) gave significant results on rooting of stem cuttings and survival percentage
of lemon (Citrus limon Burm) cv. Pant Lemon-1 as compared to control.

Singh et al. (2015) conducted experiment with the PGR concentrations viz.
IBA 500 ppm, NAA 500 ppm, IBA 500 ppm+ NAA 500 ppm and control and
seven growing media viz. soil, soil + FYM, soil + vermicompost, soil + cocopeat,
soil + sand + FYM, soil + sand + vermicompost and soil + sand + cocopeat.
Higher survival percentage (77.37%), higher shoot and root growth characters
were recorded with IBA 500 ppm in comparison to other treatments. Among

33
seven growing media, soil + sand + FYM improved survival percentage (82.33%),
average dry weight of cutting (8.05 g) and reduced the thickness of roots (1.08
mm) while higher rooting percentage (64.26%), number of primary (9.03) and
secondary roots (16.67), average length of longest root (7.81 cm), length of sprout
(7.10 cm) and average fresh weight of cutting (12.24 g) were recorded with soil +
sand + cocopeat.

Akram et al. (2017) reported that guava soft wood cuttings were treated
with 0, 200, 400 and 600 mg kg-1 IBA solution when planted in three different
rooting media (sand, silt and top soil) under low-plastic tunnel. The highest
number of roots and root length were observed in the cutting treated with 400 mg
kg-1 IBA solution in sand. In general 400 mg kg-1 IBA treatment with silt as
rooting media performed better as compared to the other treatments. However, the
highest survival percentage (50%) was observed in the cuttings rooted in silt
media and treated with 200 mg kg-1 IBA solution.

Rajkumar et al. (2017) observed that pomegranate cultivar ‘Phule Arakta’

cuttings were treated with 2500 ppm of IBA using quick dip technique (for 5
seconds) and planted in five rooting substrates i.e. sand, vermiculite, perlite,
cocopeat and garden soil (control) alone and in combination at 1:1 (v/v). The
response of perlite + vermiculite medium was best in terms of rooting (82.33%),
number of roots (32.67 per cutting), fresh and dry weight of roots (0.61 mg and
2.08 mg), shoots per cutting (80.33) and survival (76.0%) than the other medium
used. Vermiculite + Cocopeat 1:1 (v/v) combination also resulted in rooting in
more than 80% of cuttings whereas cuttings raised in garden soil and sand showed
very low rooting.

Dhatrika rani et al. (2018) found significant effect on the root and survival
percentage parameters in guava terminal cuttings. Among the three different
rooting media i.e., coco peat, vermiculite and saw dust, coco peat registered
highest values regarding percentage of rooted cuttings, number of roots per
cutting, length of longest root per cutting, fresh weight of roots, dry weight of

34
roots and survival percentage of rooted cuttings of terminal cuttings in guava cv.
Taiwan Pink. Among IBA treatments i.e., 250, 500, 750 ppm in solution form for
5 minutes and 1500, 3000, 6000 ppm in powder form, 3000 ppm of IBA
performed the best.

Eliwa et al. (2018) observed that IBA at 2000 ppm recorded the highest
values of per cent rooted cuttings (75.37 and 73.01) and per cent survival of
rooted cuttings (74.83 and 69.38) in Cadaman, while IBA at 2000 ppm was more
effective in per cent rooted cuttings (69.18 and 64.39), average number of
roots/cutting (16.67 and 15.17), average length of roots/cutting (57.72 and 50.57),
average root length/cutting (3.48 and 3.41) and per cent survival of rooted cuttings
(65.84 and 63.48) in Okinawa (as the mean of two dates during the two seasons of
study respectively). Nemaguard recorded the lowest values in per cent rooted
cuttings and per cent survival, while Nemared recorded moderate values in these
respects.

2.5 Effect of cultivar/species on rooting

Significant difference in the rooting ability of cuttings exists among

species and cultivars. Stem cuttings of some cultivars and species root easily and
readily, where as in difficult to root species and cultivar the careful selection of
cutting material from stock plants, management of cuttings and control of
environmental conditions are necessary for successful rooting. Also, the
endogenous content of inhibitor is stronger in difficult to root species.

Jawanda (1980) reported that cuttings of almond cultivar ‘French Hybrid’

responded better to IBA treatments than that of ‘Sloh’.

Randhawa and Nobumasa (1980) obtained 90% rooting in the cuttings of

‘Malus prunifolia’. Whereas cuttings of ‘M-9’, ‘M-26’ and ‘Starking Delicious’
failed to root, even after bein treated with IBA at 1250 or 2500 ppm.

Tomer and Kumar (1980) reported that plum cultivars ‘Alubukhara’,

‘Alucha Red’, ‘Kala Local’, ‘Kala Peshawari’ and ‘Kataru Chak’ were easily

35
propagated by cuttings without aid of growth regulators, whereas cultivars ‘Alfa’,
‘Black Early’, ‘Kabul Green Gage’, ‘Kala Amritsari’, ‘Santa Rosa’ and ‘Zardalu
Yellow’ required growth regulators for rooting of the cuttings.

Pandey and Pathak (1981) found maximum rooting (80%) in ‘MM-115’

apple rootstock cuttings followed by ‘MM-104’ (75.0%), ‘M-25’ (66.83%), ‘M-2’
(58.66%) and ‘MM-109’ (34.16%) after treatment with IBA + Cinnamic acid,
both at 2500 ppm.

Cheffins and Howard (1982) reported that ‘M-26’ cuttings established

better than ‘M-25’ at rooting levels below 25%, whereas ‘M-25’ cuttings
established better than ‘M-26’ cuttings with the treatments that produced higher
levels of rooting.

Sinha (1986) observed that three commercial cultivars of apple viz.

‘Fanny’, ‘Early Shanburry’ and ‘Rymer’ showed different rooting response with
IBA treatments when propagated through air layering.

Joshi (1987) while studying multiplication of apple rootstocks through

stool layering by ringing of shoots and treatment with IBA at 2500, found that
different rooting attributes, with ‘MM-106’ and ‘Merton-793’ producing 85%
rooting, ‘Merton-779’ and ‘MM-10’ (60%), ‘M-27’ and ‘Emla-26’ 50%, ‘M-7’
and ‘Emla-106’ 20% and ‘Crab c’ 10%.

Sharma (1988) reported that plum cultivars ‘Kataruchak’, ‘Monakka’ and

‘Gurda’ gave 97.50, 82.50 and 75% rooting after treatment with IBA at 200 ppm.
Number of roots and length of roots also varied in the cultivars of plum.

Ishtiaq (1989) obtained maximum number of roots per cutting in

‘Peshawar Local’ (8.50) and lowest in ‘Nemaguard’ (7.75) when treated with IBA
at 2000 and 2500 ppm.

Medel (1989) while studying propagation of hazelnut by soft wood

cuttings, found that rooting was best in cultivar ‘Barcelona’ (40-75%) followed by

36
‘De-Chilley’ (25-72.5%) and ‘Santa Rosa’ (30-70%) after treatment with 1000
ppm IBA.

Medigovic and Dacovik (1989) observed that M26 rootstock rooted best,
when mounded-up with substrate comprising HTS-GRAH media and MM111
gave the poorest rooting, especially in soil. Rooting was generally slightly better
in sawdust than in other substrates, but all the substrates were better than soil.

Sharma and Aier (1989) obtained highest rooting of 59.4% in ‘Santa Rosa’
plum cuttings followed by 46.5% in ‘Beauty’, 37% in ‘Green Gage’ and 33.4% in
‘Early Transparent Gage’, after being treated with IBA.

Debnath and Maiti (1990) found different rooting responses in softwood

cuttings of three cultivars of guava after treatment with growth regulators. The
rooting percentage of ‘Baruipur’ (72.0), ‘Harijha’ (67.3) and ‘Sardar’ (65.3) when
collected and planted during rainy season.

Gill and Chitkara (1990) found that plum cultivars ‘Motia’, ‘Dabba’ and
‘Black’ rooted better than peach cultivars ‘Sharbati’, ‘Floridasun’ and ‘Dwarf’
while clonal rootstocks ‘Marubakaido Nl’ rooted readily as compared to ‘MM-
106’ or ‘Indonesian’ when treated with growth regulators.

Hansen (1990) reported that softwood cuttings of ‘MM106’ produced a

higher rooting percentage (67.0) than ‘M26’ (46.0). The average number of roots
in each cutting was 15 for ‘MM106’ and eight for ‘M26’ after treatment with
IBA.

Lin and Lin (1990) observed that rooting ability of semi hardwood cuttings
of oriental pear cultivar ‘Hengshan’ and ‘Shenchar’ varied even after being treated
with IBA.

Gautam and Howard (1991) observed 62 per cent rooting of chestnut

cuttings and 56 per cent of hazelnut cuttings under ventilated fog and treated with
2500 ppm IBA.

37
 Pererira (1991) obtained differential rooting response of guava cultivars
‘Paluma’ and ‘Rica’ after treatment of softwood cuttings with IBA.

Sandhu (1991) revealed that ‘Kandhari’ and ‘Malas’ cultivars of

pomegranate were not uniform in their rooting behavior when propagated through
hardwood cuttings and treated with IBA.

Sun and Bassuk (1991) observed that banding and IBA treatment increased
both percentage rooting and root number in ‘MM106’ cuttings, whereas it induced
a logarithmic increase in ‘Falatamaha’ cuttings.

Bostan (1992) reported highest rooting success in cuttings from young

shoots of apricot cultivar ‘Haihaliloglu’ after treatment with 3000 ppm IBA.

Kaundal (1993) observed that rooting response of semi hardwood cuttings

of peach cultivars varied between 34.3 and 36.1 per cent in ‘Floridasun’, 22.7 and
39.2 per cent in ‘Shan-i-Punjab’, 26.9 and 33.4 per cent in ‘Florida Red’, 28.2 and
34.4 per cent in ‘Sharbati’ and 6.9 and 17.2 per cent in TA-170. After being
treated with IBA.

Oosthuizen (1993) found that rooting percentage in cultivars of pecanut

cuttings was 97.0 for ‘Sioux’ followed by ‘Hamman’, ‘Shoshoni’ and ‘Pawnee’
(each having 80.0%), whereas cultivar ‘Choctaw’ failed to root even after
treatment with IBA.

Shukla and Bist (1994) found that survival percentage, length of roots,
length of shoot and number of leaves was greater in cv. ‘Mehal’ cuttings of pear
as compared to ‘Patharnakh’ cuttings when treated with different growth
regulators.

Zhang yuejiang and Masaki (1994) obtained highest rooting rates in eight
cultivars of Prunus mume that were tested for rooting through hardwood cuttings.

Badshah et al. (1995) observed that at any given concentration IBA had
greater effects on rooting of ‘M26’ cuttings than on ‘M27’ cuttings.

38
 Hepaskoy and Unal (1995) reported that highest average rooting rate of
hardwood cuttings of ‘Quince A’ rootstock was 38.0 per cent as compared to 0.67
per cent in ‘Seker Gevrek’.

Rana (1999) observed multiplication of kiwifruit through dormant

cuttings, the results revealed that among five cultivars ‘Monty’, ‘Bruno’,
‘Hayward’, ‘Abbott’ and ‘Allison’, maximum rooting was recorded in ‘Monty’
and least in ‘Allison’.

Osterc and Spethmann (2000) reported that apple clones ‘M27’, ‘Pis-1’,
‘Pis-2’, ‘M9-4/80’, ‘M9-984’, ‘M9-756’ showed great differences with regard to
quality of rooting while ‘M9 clones’ showed the poorest results.

Sharma et al. (2005) found that IBA 3000 ppm induced more number of
roots and increased the emergence of new leaves in semi-hardwood cuttings of
MM106 followed by M9 and M2 rootstocks.

Dvin et al. (2011) studied the rooting response of hardwood cuttings with
a view to determine the most suitable IBA concentration and rooting medium for
MM111 hardwood cuttings. They recorded maximum rooting percentage
(37.03%) and root number (11.33) with 2500 ppm IBA in cocopeat + perlite as
rooting medium.

Pandit et al. (2011) carried out a study to evaluate the effect of Indole-3-
butyric acid (IBA) on the rooting capacity of semi hardwood cuttings of two
clonal apple rootstocks, MM106 and MM111. Highest rooting per cent, maximum
number and length of primary roots were obtained with 3000 ppm IBA with both
rootstocks.

Srivastava et al. (2016) revealed that maximum numbers of primary and

secondary roots were noted of 93.40, 92.76 in MM106 and USA 106 and 92.0
noted in CITH-rootstock-01, respectively. Maximum length of primary roots
(19.83cm) was recorded of EMLA 106 whereas shortest primary roots (6.47 cm)
were recorded of ALNARP. The longest secondary roots (11.83cm) were found in

39
M27 and shortest secondary roots (2.10 cm) in ALNARP rootstock. Most of the
indigenous apple rootstocks were having short to medium length of secondary
roots. Leaf area was recorded highest (3.80 cm2) in CITH-Apple rootstock-04 and
smallest (1.96 cm2) of USA106.

40
Chapter-3

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The present investigation entitled “Response of rooting media and growth
hormone on the rooting behavior of apple clonal rootstocks” was conducted
through the Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural
Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, in the nursery block of
Division of Fruit Science. The details pertaining to materials used, methods
adopted and statistical analysis followed during the course of investigation are
described in this chapter.

3.1 Geographical location of the experimental site

Srinagar is situated at an altitude of 1630 meters above mean sea level and
between 34° 08′ North latitude and 74° 08′ East longitude. It is surrounded by
lofty Himalayan ranges on South East and North East sides. The University
campus is at a distance of 15 kilometers from the main city towards the North
East side.

3.2 Technical programme

The experiment was carried out with several combinations of rooting

media, growth hormone and apple clonal rootstocks which consists of the
treatments given as under.

Rootstock : Three clonal rootstocks of apple were used as described below:-

S1 : M7

S2 : M9 T337

S3 : MM106

Growth hormone : Three IBA concentrations were used as described below:-

G1 : 2500 ppm

G2 : 3000 ppm

G3 : 3500 ppm

41
Rooting media : Four combinations of rooting media were used as described
below:

M1 : Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)

M2 : Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)

M3 : Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)

M4 : Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)

Stem Cutting : Hard wood cutting (Previous year’s growth)

Time of collection of cuttings : February (dormant season)

Time of IBA treatment : IBA application at the time of planting of rootstock

cuttings.

Method of application of IBA : Quick dip (10-15 sec.)

Number of rooting media : 4

Number of rootstock : 3

Number of growth hormone : 3

Total number of treatments : 36

Replications : 3

Number of rootstock per replication : 10

Total number of experimental cuttings: 36 × 3 × 10 = 1080

3.2.1 Treatment details

Treatments comprised of four types of rooting media. These twelve

treatment combinations were replicated thrice (R1, R2 and R3) in Controlled
Randomized Design (CRD). Thus there were 12×3 = 36 randomized blocks. Each
treatment combination had thirty samples. Thus, there were total 36×30=1080
samples with various composition as given in Table-3.1.

42
Table-3.1: Treatment combinations

S1G1M1 S2G1M1 S3G1M1

S1G1M2 S2G1M2 S3G1M2

S1G1M3 S2G1M3 S3G1M3

S1G1M4 S2G1M4 S3G1M4

S1G2M1 S2G2M1 S3G2M1

S1G2M2 S2G2M2 S3G2M2

S1G2M3 S2G2M3 S3G2M3

S1G2M4 S2G2M4 S3G2M4

S1G3M1 S2G3M1 S3G3M1

S1G3M2 S2G3M2 S3G3M2

S1G3M3 S2G3M3 S3G3M3

S1G3M4 S2G3M4 S3G3M4

3.2.2 Source of cuttings and their preparation:

The hardwood cuttings of apple clonal rootstocks (M7, M9 T337 and

MM106) used in the experiment were obtained from the Division of Fruit
Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural
Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar. The selected branches
of cuttings were taken in the dormant season of plant growth and were stored in a
cool place by covering the cuttings with sand and ensured proper level of moisture
in the sand by sprinkling water till they were planted in polybags. Cuttings were
then taken out from the sand and washed with water to remove the sand particles
that adored the cuttings. The cuttings having character, length of 15-20 cm, 4-5
nodes and thickness of 0.8-1.0 cm were taken from the hard wood portion of the
branches. For making cuttings, the first basal cut was given just below the node

43
and the top cut half to one inch above the node. The basal cut was straight while
the top cut was slant. Thickness of each cutting varied from 3 mm to 15 mm.

3.2.3 Types of rooting media used

3.2.3.1 Sand

The sand contained small rock grains from 0.05 to 2.0 mm diameter,
formed as the result of the weathering of various rocks. Washed and sieved river
sand was used chiefly due to the presence of silica compounds in it. Sand is the
heaviest of all rooting media and contains virtually no mineral nutrients.

3.2.3.2 Vermicompost

It is mixture of earthworm casts produced by biologically decomposable

organic matter in the digestive tract of the earth worm. Worm manure is rich in
microbial activity, plant growth regulators and fortified with pest repellence
attributes as well. It is a rich source of organic matter, macro and micro plant
nutrients and beneficial bacteria and actinomycetes population. It contains N 
0.5% to 0.9%, P2O5  0.1%-0.2% and K2O  0.15%-0.5%.

3.2.3.3 Vermiculite

Vermiculite is a silicate material that is processed much like perlite.

Heating causes tremendous expansion of the particles and results in a highly
porous lattice structure with good water-retention properties. Vermiculite is
available in a number of grades from fine, for seed germination, to coarser grades
for use as rooting media amendments. Although the finer material allows the
rooting media to flow more evenly into plug trays when filling, the particles are
too small to hold much air or water for the developing roots. It is also susceptible
to compaction. CEC of vermiculite is fairly high (2-2.5 meq/100cc) and pH varies
from slightly to very alkaline, depending on the source. pH of vermiculite is
between 6.3 and 7.8. Vermiculite provides some Ca, Mg and K. Particles are soft
and easily compressed, so must be handled carefully.

44
3.2.3.4 Perlite

Perlite is a volcanic rock that is crushed and heated rapidly to a high

temperature (1,800F). The material expands to form a white, light-weight
aggregate with high pore space. Water-holding capacity is fairly low, as water is
retained only on the surface and in the pores between particles. Perlite is added to
rooting media to improve drainage. It is chemically inert with almost no CEC or
nutrients and a neutral pH. Perlite may contain levels of fluoride that are injurious
to fluoride-sensitive foliage plants. Maintaining a pH above 6 and reducing the
use of fluoride-containing superphosphate fertilizer should avoid fluoride toxicity
problems. Fine grades of perlite are available for use in plug production. Perlite
dust can pose as a health risk; therefore, dust masks must be worn by workers
during handling of this product.

3.2.3.5 Cocopeat

Cocopeat is a by-product of coir industry and it is prepared by composting

the coir dust for several months. Cocopeat is a very important substrate for
growing plants. It is light brown to dark brown in colour and is highly acidic due
to the partial decomposition of its constituents. Chemical and physical properties
of the coir vary depending on the amount of fiber in it. Particle size ranges from
about 0.5 to 2 mm, is greater than 80 per cent pore space and air-filled pore space
at container capacity is 9 to 13 per cent. Coir has a high moisture/water holding
capacity and contains relatively low levels of micronutrients, but significant levels
of phosphorus and potassium. The pH of coir ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. Since no
lime is needed for pH adjustment and coir does not provide these nutrients.

3.2.4 Preparation of rooting media

Before planting, the rooting media were filled in the polybags leaving a
gap of 2 cm from the top. Tapering black circular conical polybags were used as
pots for filling the four types of rooting media. Polybags were of a height of 15

45
cm, upper diameter of 7.0 cm, bottom diameter tapering to 2.5 cm. Bottom was
open for water drainage.

3.2.5 Preparation of growth hormones

The required concentrations of growth hormone concentrations (2500,

3000 and 3500 ppm) of IBA were prepared by dissolving each 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5
gram of IBA in 50 ml ethanol in separate beaker and made up the final volume up
to 1000 ml by adding distilled water respectively.

3.2.6 Application of treatments

The prepared cuttings from selected material were dipped in the solution
up to 5 cm length for 10-15 seconds which were later taken out from the solution
and dried in shade.

3.2.7 Planting of cuttings

The poly bags were filled with the rooting media. The cuttings were
planted in the poly bags on 29th March, 2019. Cuttings were planted in an inclined
position at an angle of approximately 60 ℃ to avoid the water enter through the
cut surface. Thirty cuttings were planted in their respective poly bags filled with
relevant rooting media as shown in the layout plan (Table-3.1). The planted
cuttings were regularly watered depending on the moisture content present in the
poly bags.

3.2.8 Tagging of cuttings

For the purpose of taking observations each rooting media type and
random plants were tagged. Poly bags were numbered in three rows 1 to 10, 11 to
20 and 21-30 while viewing from south to north from right to left.

There were 1080 numbers of cuttings which were planted in poly bags.
Each rootstock cuttings was tagged giving replication type, rooting media type
and poly bags serial number.

46
3.3 Observations recorded

1. Days taken to first leaf initiation

2. Sprouting of cuttings (%)

3. Leaf area (cm²)

4. Fresh and Dry weight of leaf (g)

5. Number of leaves/cutting

6. Shoot length (cm)

7. Shoot diameter (mm)

8. Root diameter (mm)

9. Number of roots per cutting

10. Average root length (cm)

11. Length of longest root per cutting (cm)

12. Fresh and dry weight of shoot (g)

13. Fresh and dry weight of root (g)

14. Root : shoot ratio (dry weight basis)

15. Rooted cuttings (%)

16. Survival of cuttings (%)

3.3.1 Days taken to first leaf initiation:

Time taken to initiate leaf for each rootstock cutting was determined by
counting days from first day of planting until leaf bud initiation. The values were
expressed in days.

3.3.2 Sprouting of cuttings

Sprouting of cuttings for each treatment was determined by counting the

number of sprouted rootstock cuttings. The values were expressed in percentage (%).

47
3.3.3 Leaf area (cm²)

The observations on the leaf area were recorded during the first week of
October, 2019, when leaves were fully developed. Twenty fully expanded leaves
were collected at random from the cuttings and area of these leaves was measured
with the help of Leaf Area Meter 211 and expressed in square centimeter (cm²).

3.3.4 Fresh and dry weight of leaf (g)

The twenty fully grown leaves were collected from the middle part of the
shoot during first week of October in each replication under each treatment and
accurately weighed the fresh leaves using electronic weighing balance. Its average
was expressed in grams (g). To record leaves dry weight, leaves were taken from
same samples used for fresh weight and after that dried it in a hot air oven at a
temperature of 65 ℃ for about 48 hours until the constant weight of samples were
obtained. Dry leaves weight was recorded with the help electronic weighing
balance. Its average was expressed in grams (g).

3.3.5 Number of leaves

The data on leaf number was recorded during the month of October. All
the leaves, irrespective of their size of the leaves. Leaves were counted and the
average number of leaves per cutting was calculated.

3.3.6 Shoot length (cm)

The length of main shoot was measured with a measuring scale. The
measuring was done from the point of emergence on the cutting to the upper most
tip of the shoot. It was expressed in centimeter.

3.3.7 Shoot diameter (mm)

The diameter was measured with the help of digital vernier caliper from
the base of main shoot where the shoot had originated from the cutting. It was
expressed in millimeters (mm).

48
3.3.8 Root diameter (mm)

The diameter of roots from each cutting was recorded by using a digital
vernier caliper. It was measured in millimeters (mm).

3.3.9 Number of roots per cutting

The number of roots emerging out directly from the planted cuttings was
designated as total number of roots on the cutting. Number of roots arising out of
each rooted cuttings were recorded and the data was expressed as “number of
roots per cutting” for each treatment.

3.3.10 Average root length (cm)

The length of each root arising from cutting under each treatment was
measured with scale from base to tip and expressed in centimeter (cm).

3.3.11 Length of longest root per cutting (cm)

The roots were washed with pressurized tap water and the length of
longest root per cutting in each treatment was measured by measuring scale from
base to tip of the root tip and mean of length of the longest roots were expressed
in centimeter (cm).

3.3.12 Fresh and dry weight of shoot (g)

The entire shoot was cut into small pieces and accurately weighed after
removing all the leaves and roots with the help of electronic weighing balance. To
record dry weight of shoot the pieces of entire shoot were dried in an oven at a
temperature of 65 ℃ for about 48 hours until the constant weight of sample was
obtained. It was expressed in grams (g).

3.3.13 Fresh and dry weight of root (g)

The entire roots were separated from the cuttings and washed with tap
water. The entire root was cut into small pieces and accurately weighed on a top
pan of electronic balance. To record dry weight of root the pieces of entire root

49
were dried in an oven at a temperature of 65 ℃ for about 48 hours until the
constant weight of sample was obtained. It was expressed in grams (g).

3.3.14 Root : Shoot ratio (on dry weight basis)

The data on root: shoot ratio was calculated at the end of the growing
season. Cuttings were washed with tap water. The roots were cut from the shoot
with the help of secateur. Both root and shoot portion was dried in the oven at
65℃ till they attained constant weight. Root shoot ratio was calculated as:

Dry weight of root

Root : shoot ratio =
Dry weight of shoot
3.3.15 Rooted cuttings (%)

The percentages of rooted cuttings in different treatments were recorded

after removing the cuttings from their respective polybags and by counting the number
of rooted cuttings out of the total number of cuttings planted per treatment and then
expressed in percentage.

No. of rooted cuttings

Rooted cuttings (%) = × 100
Total No. of cuttings
3.3.16 Survival of cuttings

The survival of cuttings for each treatment were determined by counting

the total number of survived rootstock cuttings under each replication were
recorded. The values were expressed in percentage (%).

3.4 Design of Experiment

The design of the experiment was factorial CRD with 36 treatment

combinations including the control. The whole treatments have been replicated
thrice. The total number of polybags were 1080 and one plant was maintained in
each polybag.

50
Chapter-4

EXPERIMENTAL FINDINGS
The present investigation entitled “Response of rooting media and
growth hormone on the rooting behavior of apple clonal rootstocks” was
carried out during 2019 in the fruit nursery block of Division of Fruit Science,
Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and
Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar. The results obtained during the
course of investigation related to experimental findings are presented in this
chapter under the following headings.

4.1 Days taken to first leaf initiation

The main effects of rooting media and growth hormone on the rooting
behavior of apple clonal rootstocks exerted significant effect on days taken to first
leaf initiation during 2019 (Table-4.1).

The minimum number of days to first leaf initiation (16.02) was observed
in rootstock, S3 (MM106) which was statistically at par with S 1 (M7) rootstock
(16.11). However, the maximum number of days taken to first leaf initiation
(21.27) was observed in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

All the concentrations of growth hormone showed significant influence on

days taken to first leaf initiation. Minimum number of days taken to first leaf
initiation (15.22) was observed in rootstock cuttings treated with G 2 (IBA: 3000
ppm) growth hormone which was followed by G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) having a
value of 18.58. While as maximum number of days taken to first leaf initiation
(19.61) was observed in G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) growth hormone.

Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) exhibited less

number of days taken to first leaf initiation (14.63), which was followed by M 4
(sand + vermicompost + cocopeat :: 1:1:1) (16.03) . More number of days taken to
first leaf initiation (21.77) was exhibited by M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1)
rooting media.

51
 Table 4.1: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on days taken to first leaf initiation
M
M1 Sub M2 Sub M3 Sub M4 Sub Factor
S Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G1=
S1 17.33 16.00 23.00 18.77 16.00 15.33 16.00 15.77 14.33 13.33 15.00 14.22 15.00 14.66 17.33 15.66 16.11
19.61

G2=
S2 34.33 20.66 30.00 28.33 33.00 15.66 22.33 23.66 20.00 14.00 14.66 16.22 20.66 14.66 15.33 16.88 21.27
15.22
52 G3=
S3 18.00 17.33 19.33 18.22 17.66 15.00 18.00 16.88 13.00 12.33 15.00 13.44 16.00 13.66 17.00 15.55 16.02
52
18.58
Mean 23.22 18.00 24.11 21.77 22.22 15.33 18.77 18.77 15.77 13.22 14.88 14.63 17.22 14.33 16.55 16.03

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)

S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)

S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)

M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)

C.D at 5%

Rootstock = 0.736 Rootstock x Rooting media = 1.472

Growth hormone = 0.736 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 1.472

Rooting media = 0.850 Rootstock × Growth hormone x Rooting media = 2.550

52
 Different rootstock and rooting media also registered a significant
influence on days taken to first leaf initiation. Lowest number of days taken to
first leaf initiation (13.44) was observed in S3M3, Which was statistically at par
with S1M3 (14.22). Highest number of days taken to first leaf initiation (28.33)
was resulted in S2M1.

Similarly the interaction effect of growth hormone and rooting media

revealed significant influence on days taken to first leaf initiation. G2M3 recorded
minimum number of days taken to first leaf initiation (13.22), which was
statistically at par with combination of G2M4 (14.33). Maximum number of days
taken to first leaf initiation was registered in G3M1 (24.11).

Combined effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media showed

significant influence on the days taken to first leaf initiation. The interaction
S3G2M3 observed lowest number of days taken to first leaf initiation (12.33),
which was statistically at par with S3G1M3 (13.00), S1G2M3 (13.33), S3G2M4
(13.66) and S2G2M3 (14.00). Highest number of days taken to first leaf initiation
registered in S2G1M1 (34.33).

4.2 Sprouting of cuttings (%)

The data present in Table-4.2 indicates that the percentage of sprouting in

rootstock cuttings was influenced by rootstock, rooting media and growth
hormone during 2019.

It was noticed that rootstock, S3 (MM106) recorded highest sprouting

percentage of cuttings (89.44%) which was followed by S1 (M7) recorded
sprouting percentage of cuttings 81.94% and S2 (M9 T337) recorded lowest
sprouting percentage of cuttings (81.38%).

Application of growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded

significantly maximum sprouting percentage of cuttings (90.00%) which was
followed by the treatment of growth hormone, G 1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) with 84.72%
and the minimum sprouting percentage of cuttings (78.05%) resulted in growth

53
hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

54
 Table 4.2: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on sprouting of cuttings (%)
M
M1 Sub M2 Sub M3 Sub M4 Sub Factor
S Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 73.33 76.66 60.00 70.00 66.66 90.00 63.33 73.33 93.33 100.00 90.00 94.44 93.33 93.33 83.33 90.00 81.94
84.72

G 2=
S2 96.66 90.00 83.33 90.00 86.66 73.33 70.00 76.66 76.66 83.33 66.66 75.55 80.00 96.66 73.33 83.33 81.38
54 90.00
54
G 3=
S3 83.33 93.33 90.00 88.88 86.66 96.66 86.66 90.00 96.66 100.00 90.00 95.55 83.33 86.66 80.00 83.33 89.44
78.05
Mean 84.44 86.66 77.77 82.96 80.00 86.66 73.33 80.00 88.88 94.44 82.22 88.51 85.55 92.22 78.88 85.55

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)

S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)

S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)

M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)

C.D at 5%

Rootstock = 3.532 Rootstock x Rooting media = 7.064

Growth hormone = 3.532 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

Rooting media = 4.078 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 12.235

55
 Rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1) also
significantly resulted with the maximum sprouting percentage of cuttings
(88.51%) which was statistically at par with the M 4 (sand + vermicompost +
cocopeat :: 1:1:1) (85.55%). Minimum sprouting percentage of cuttings observed
in M2 (sand + vermicompost + vermiculite :: 1:1:1) rooting media having 80.00%.

Rootstock and rooting media produced significant influence on sprouting

percentage of cuttings. Sprouting percentage of cuttings were recorded to be
highest (95.55%) in combination of S3M3 which was statistically at par with the
treatment combination of S1M3 with value of 94.44%. The lowest sprouting
percentage of cuttings were recorded to be 70.00% in combination of S1M1.

The combined influence of application of growth hormone and rooting

media was found non-significant and having maximum sprouting percentage of
cuttings 94.44% in combination of G2M3.

The combination of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media was

noted significant influence on sprouting percentage of cuttings. Sprouting
percentage of cuttings was recorded to be maximum (100%) in combination of
S3G2M3 and S1G2M3 which was statistically at par with the treatment combination
of S2G2M4 with value of 96.66%. The lowest sprouting percentage of cuttings was
recorded to be 60.00% in combination of S1G3M1.

4.3 Leaf area (cm²)

All the treatments showed significant influence on leaf area during 2019.
Significantly maximum leaf area (26.21 cm²) was recorded in rootstock, S 3
(MM106) which was followed by S1 (M7) having the leaf area of 5.12 cm².
Minimum leaf area (20.68 cm²) was recorded in rootstock, S2 (M9 T337).

Significantly highest leaf area (28.78 cm²) was observed with the growth
hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) which was resulted higher leaf area than other
treatment followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm): (22.82 cm²). Lowest leaf area (20.42
cm²) was observed with the influence of growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

56
 Table 4.3: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on leaf area (cm2)
M
M1 Sub M2 Sub M3 Sub M4 Sub Factor
S Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 20.30 27.53 16.06 21.30 21.13 29.93 17.90 22.94 30.46 35.20 24.80 30.15 26.36 30.23 21.60 26.06 25.12
22.82

G 2=
S2 14.83 19.86 17.46 17.38 16.10 21.46 17.76 18.48 20.76 28.93 24.53 24.74 20.63 25.40 20.46 22.16 20.68
28.78
56
56
G 3=
S3 21.80 30.73 18.63 23.72 20.56 27.83 16.50 21.63 35.16 35.23 25.73 32.04 25.76 33.00 23.63 27.46 26.21
20.42
Mean 18.97 26.04 17.38 20.80 19.26 26.41 17.38 21.02 28.80 33.12 25.02 28.98 24.25 29.54 21.90 25.23

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)

S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)

S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)

M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)

C.D at 5%

Rootstock = 0.968 Rootstock x Rooting media = 1.937

Growth hormone = 0.968 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

Rooting media = 1.118 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 3.354

57
 Highest leaf area (28.98 cm²) was recorded in rooting media, M 3 (sand +
vermicompost + perlite) :: (1:1:1) which was significantly followed by M4 (sand +
vermicompost + cocopeat) :: (1:1:1) having of 25.23 cm² leaf area. Minimum leaf
area was observed in rooting media, M1 (sand + vermicompost) :: (1:1) : (20.80
cm²).

The effect of interaction between rootstock and rooting media was also
found to be significant on leaf area. The highest leaf area (32.04 cm²) was
recorded in rootstock cuttings with treatment combination of S 3M3 and this was
statistically at par with treatment combination of S 1M3 with 30.15 cm² leaf area.
However, the lowest leaf area (17.38 cm²) was observed in rootstock cuttings with
treatment combination of S2M1.

The interaction effect of application of growth hormone and rooting media

was found non-significant influence on leaf area. Maximum leaf area (33.12 cm²)
was obtained in G2M3 treatment combination.

It is apparent from data presented in Table-4.3 that the combination of

rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media showed a significant effect on leaf
area. Highest leaf area was recorded in S 3G2M3 (35.23 cm²), it was statistically at
par with treatment combination of S1G2M3, S3G1M3 and S3G2M4 having leaf area of
35.20 35.16 and 33.00 cm² respectively. The lowest leaf area (14.83 cm²) was
recorded in S2G1M1 combination.

4.4 Fresh weight of leaf (g)

Influence of rootstock, rooting media and growth hormone on fresh weight

of leaf reveals that rootstock had a significant influence on fresh weight of leaf.
Significantly maximum fresh weight of leaf (9.87 g) was recorded in S 3 (MM106)
followed by the rootstock S1 (M7): (8.60 g). Minimum fresh weight of leaf (6.53
g) was observed in rootstock S2 (M9 T337).

Growth hormone application also significantly influenced on fresh weight

of leaf. Application of growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) resulted in highest

58
fresh weight of leaf (10.11 g), it was followed by G 1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) with value
of 7.74 g. Lowest fresh weight of leaf (7.15 g) was recorded in growth hormone
G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

As far as the effect of rooting media is concerned significant influence on

fresh weight of leaf was observed. Significantly highest fresh weight of leaf (9.50
g) was shown by rooting media M 3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1)
followed by M4 (sand + vermicompost + cocopeat) (1:1:1) : (8.53 g) and M 2 (sand
+ vermicompost + vermiculite) (1:1:1) : (7.96 g) and the lowest fresh weight of
leaf (7.35 g) was revealed by rooting media M 1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1)
during the year 2019.

The combined influence of rootstock and rooting media showed significant

effect on fresh weight of leaf. The combination of S 3M3 registered maximum fresh
weight of leaf 11.46 g followed by the combination of S 3M4 with the fresh weight
of leaf of 10.10 g. Minimum fresh weight of leaf (5.66 g) was registered in S2M1.

The interaction between growth hormone and rooting media also exerted a
significant effect on fresh weight of leaf. The maximum fresh weight of leaf
(11.26 g) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with the combination of
G2M3, which was followed by the treatment combination G 2M4, it represented by
fresh weight of leaf of 10.16 g. Contrastingly, the minimum fresh weight of leaf
of 6.06 g was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with the combination G3M1 of
fresh weight of leaf.

The interaction of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media had

resulted in significant effect on fresh weight of leaf (Table-4.4). The interaction of
S3G2M3 combination had registered highest result of fresh weight of leaf (13.10 g)
and it is followed by the value of fresh weight of leaf (12.20 g) S 3G2M4 treatment
combination. The interaction of S2G1M1 combination had registered least result on
fresh weight of leaf (4.40 g).

59
 Table 4.4: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on fresh weight of leaf (g)
M
M1 Sub M2 Sub M3 Sub M4 Sub Factor
S Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 7.40 9.60 6.60 7.86 7.80 10.00 7.20 8.33 8.80 12.10 7.70 9.53 8.70 10.20 7.20 8.70 8.60
7.74

G 2=
S2 4.40 7.30 5.30 5.66 4.70 7.70 6.10 6.16 6.30 8.60 7.60 7.50 5.70 8.10 6.60 6.80 6.53
59
59 10.11

G 3=
S3 8.10 11.20 6.30 8.53 9.10 11.30 7.80 9.40 11.70 13.10 9.60 11.46 10.20 12.20 7.90 10.10 9.87
7.15

Mean 6.63 9.36 6.06 7.35 7.20 9.66 7.03 7.96 8.93 11.26 8.30 9.50 8.20 10.16 7.23 8.53

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.194 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.389
Growth hormone = 0.194 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.389
Rooting media = 0.224 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.673

60
4.5 Dry weight of leaf (g)

The data on dry weight of leaf due to different rootstock, rooting media
and growth hormone showed significant influence on dry weight of leaf during
2019 (Table-4.5).

Rootstock S3 (MM106) exhibited the maximum dry weight of leaf (3.79 g)

followed by rootstock S1 (M7): (3.09 g). Rootstock S2 (M9 T337) registered
minimum (2.27 g) dry weight of leaf.

Growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) had significantly highest dry weight
of leaf (3.50 g) which was followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) with the dry weight
of leaf of 2.96 g. Growth hormone G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) had significantly lowest
dry weight of leaf (2.69 g).

Significantly maximum dry weight of leaf (3.48 g) was recorded in rooting

media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1) which was followed by the M 4
(sand + vermicompost + cocopeat :: 1:1:1) with the dry weight of leaf of 3.15 g.
Significantly minimum dry weight of leaf was observed in rooting media M1 (sand
+ vermicompost :: 1:1): (2.68 g).

The combined influence of rootstock and rooting media had shown

significant influence on dry weight of leaf. Maximum dry weight of leaf (4.43 g)
was observed in S3M3 treatment which was significantly followed by S3M4 (3.73 g).

As far as the interaction between growth hormone and rooting media

showed significant influence on dry weight of leaf. Highest value of dry weight of
leaf (3.83 g) was recorded in G2M3 which was followed by G2M4 (3.60 g). Lowest
value of dry weight of leaf (2.37 g) was recorded in G3M1.

The combined effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media

showed that maximum dry weight of leaf (5.20 g) was recorded in S 3G2M3 which
was significantly followed by S3G1M3 (4.70 g) and minimum dry weight of leaf
(1.60 g) was recorded in S2G1M1.

61
 Table 4.5: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on dry weight of leaf (g)
M
M1 Sub M2 Sub M3 Sub M4 Sub Factor
S Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 2.60 3.00 2.30 2.63 2.90 3.40 2.40 2.90 3.60 4.20 2.90 3.56 3.40 3.70 2.70 3.26 3.09
2.96

G 2=
S2 1.60 2.50 1.90 2.00 1.80 2.60 2.10 2.16 2.50 2.10 2.80 2.46 2.20 2.70 2.50 2.46 2.27
61 3.50
61
G 3=
S3 3.30 4.00 2.93 3.41 3.43 4.30 3.10 3.61 4.70 5.20 3.40 4.43 3.50 4.40 3.30 3.73 3.79
2.69

Mean 2.50 3.16 2.37 2.68 2.71 3.43 2.53 2.89 3.60 3.83 3.03 3.48 3.03 3.60 2.83 3.15

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.105 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.209
Growth hormone = 0.105 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.209
Rooting media = 0.121 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.363

62
4.6 Number of leaves/cutting

The data indicated that the number of leaves per cutting was significantly
affected by rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media during 2019.

The perusal of data reveals that number of leaves was positively

influenced by various rootstock. The highest number of leaves (32.88) were
recorded in S3 (MM106) rootstock which was statistically followed with S1 (M7)
rootstock having leaf number of 29.38. Minimum number of leaves (26.30) was
observed in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

The different growth hormone concentrations had a significant effect on

number of leaves per cuttings. The maximum number of leaves (33.94) was
recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone G 2 (IBA: 3000 ppm),
which was followed by rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone G1 (IBA:
2500 ppm) recorded 28.25 leaf number. However, the minimum number of leaves
(26.38) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone G 3 (IBA:
3500 ppm).

It is clearly evident from the perusal of data presented in Table-4.6 that

influence of different rooting media exerted a significant effect on number of
leaves. The maximum number of leaves (32.96) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings planted in rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite (1:1:1)),
which was significantly better than any other rooting media. Contrastingly, the
minimum number of leaves (26.63) was found in rootstock cuttings planted in
rooting media M2 (sand + vermicompost + vermiculite (1:1:1)).

The interaction between rootstock and rooting media exerted a significant

effect on number of leaves. However, the higher number of leaves (36.88) was
recorded in S3M3, it was statistically at par with treatment combination of S3M4
having a value of 35.88. S2M1 combination was resulted lowest number of leaves
(23.22).

63
 Table 4.6: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on number of leaves/cutting
M
M1 Sub M2 Sub M3 Sub M4 Sub Factor
S Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 27.33 29.66 24.00 27.00 24.66 30.33 25.00 26.66 32.00 38.00 30.33 33.44 30.00 32.66 28.66 30.44 29.38
28.25

G 2=
S2 20.33 27.33 22.00 23.22 24.00 29.66 24.00 25.88 26.00 32.00 27.66 28.55 24.66 30.66 27.33 27.55 26.30
33.94
63
63
G 3=
S3 28.00 40.33 26.00 31.44 26.33 33.00 22.66 27.33 33.00 47.33 30.33 36.88 42.66 36.33 28.66 35.88 32.88
26.38

Mean 25.22 32.44 24.00 27.22 25.00 31.00 23.88 26.63 30.33 39.11 29.44 32.96 32.44 33.22 28.22 31.29

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.859 Rootstock x Rooting media = 1.718
Growth hormone = 0.859 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 1.718

64
 Growth hormone and rooting media interaction showed significant
influence on number of leaves. The combination of G 2M3 was observed maximum
number of leaves (39.11) which was followed by treatment combination of G 2M4
having number of leaves (33.22) and the G 3M2 combination observed minimum
number of leaves (23.88).

The interaction effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media

showed significant influence on number of leaves. Number of leaves highest in
the combination of S3G2M3 was revealed that (47.33) which was followed by
S3G1M4 (42.66). S2G1M1 combination was recorded minimum number of leaves
(20.33).

4.7 Shoot length (cm)

Table-4.7 reveals that shoot length was significantly affected by rootstock,

rooting media and growth hormone during 2019.

Significantly maximum shoot length (54.68 cm) was recorded in S 3

(MM106) rootstock which was followed by S1 (M7) rootstock having a value of
50.16 cm. Minimum shoot length (47.10 cm) was recorded in S2 (M9 T337)
rootstock.

Shoot length was also significantly affected by growth hormone. While

highest shoot length (56.53 cm) was revealed under the treatment G 2 (IBA: 3000
ppm) growth hormone which was followed by the treatment of G 1 (IBA: 2500
ppm) growth hormone having 48.10 cm. Lowest shoot length (47.31 cm) was
revealed under treatment G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

Significantly maximum shoot length (54.02 cm) was observed in rooting

media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) which was statistically at par
with M4 (sand + vermicompost + cocopeat) (1:1:1) rooting media having 51.52
cm, while as minimum shoot length (47.89 cm) was registered in M 2 (sand +
vermicompost + vermiculite) (1:1:1).

65
66
 Table 4.7: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on shoot length (cm)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 47.33 52.56 44.76 48.22 45.46 55.76 45.16 48.80 49.83 58.60 51.83 53.42 45.00 57.20 48.40 50.02 50.16
48.10

G 2=
65
65 S2 42.60 46.66 44.23 44.50 44.33 48.80 44.26 45.80 44.90 55.90 46.93 49.24 44.53 55.40 46.73 48.88 47.10
56.53

G 3=
S3 53.93 63.13 47.16 54.74 46.13 56.00 45.10 49.07 58.50 65.00 54.73 59.41 54.73 63.33 48.40 55.48 54.68
47.31

Mean 47.95 54.12 45.38 49.15 45.31 53.52 44.84 47.89 51.07 59.83 51.16 54.02 48.08 58.64 47.84 51.52

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 1.634 Rootstock x Rooting media = 3.268
Growth hormone = 1.634 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

67
Rooting media = 1.887 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

68
 Interaction of rootstock and rooting media also registered significant
influence on shoot length with maximum value (59.41 cm) recorded in S 3M3
which was statistically followed by S 3M4 (55.48 cm). Minimum value (44.50 cm)
of shoot length was recorded in S2M1.

Interaction effect of growth hormone and rooting media showed non-

significant influence on shoot length. Highest shoot length (59.83 cm) was
recorded in G2M3 combination and the lowest shoot length (44.84 cm) was
recorded in G3M2 combination.

The combined interaction effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting

media showed non-significant influence on shoot length. The maximum shoot
length (65.00 cm) was revealed in the treatment combination of S 3G2M3 and the
minimum shoot length (42.60 cm) was revealed in the combination of S2G1M1.

4.8 Shoot diameter (mm)

All the treatments of rootstock, rooting media and growth hormone

application exerted significant influence on Shoot diameter (Table-4.8).

Rootstock S3 (MM106) showed significantly maximum shoot diameter

(4.10 mm) followed by S1 (M7) rootstock (3.75 mm). Minimum shoot diameter
(3.54 mm) was observed in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

Highest shoot diameter was observed in G 2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth

hormone (4.14 mm) which was significantly followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm)
growth hormone (3.74 mm). Lowest shoot diameter (3.52 mm) was observed in
G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1) resulted

significantly maximum shoot diameter (4.11 mm) which was followed by M 4
(sand + vermicompost + cocopeat ::1:1:1) rooting media (3.95 mm). Minimum
shoot diameter was observed in M1 (sand + vermicompost :: 1:1) was 3.56 mm.

69
 Table 4.8: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on shoot diameter (mm)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 3.52 3.87 3.31 3.57 3.55 3.90 3.35 3.60 4.00 4.27 3.71 3.99 3.72 4.59 3.27 3.86 3.75
3.74

G 2=
S2 3.24 3.52 3.05 3.27 3.42 3.65 3.02 3.36 3.68 4.03 3.53 3.75 3.71 3.75 3.92 3.79 3.54
67
67 4.14

G 3=
S3 3.64 4.59 3.30 3.84 3.86 3.98 3.58 3.81 4.42 4.98 4.33 4.57 4.12 4.54 3.90 4.19 4.10
3.52

Mean 3.47 3.99 3.22 3.56 3.61 3.84 3.31 3.59 4.03 4.43 3.86 4.11 3.85 4.29 3.70 3.95

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.099 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.197
Growth hormone = 0.099 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S
Rooting media = 0.114 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.342

70
 Interaction effect of different rootstock and rooting media was also found
to be significant on shoot diameter. However, the highest shoot diameter (4.57
mm) was recorded in S3M3 which was followed by S3M4 combination (4.19 mm).
S2M1 combination was resulted lowest shoot diameter (3.27 mm).

Growth hormone and rooting media interaction was found to be non-

significant influence on shoot diameter. The combination of G2M3 was observed
highest shoot diameter (4.43 mm) and the G3M1 combination was observed lowest
shoot diameter (3.22 mm).

The interaction effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media

showed significant influence on shoot diameter. The combination of S3G2M3 was
revealed that maximum shoot diameter (4.98 mm) followed by S 1G2M4 (4.59
mm). Combination of S2G3M2 showed the minimum shoot diameter (3.02 mm).

4.9 Root diameter (mm)

The observations related to root diameter was influenced by rootstock,

rooting media and different concentrations of growth hormone (Table-4.9).

The data indicates that the cuttings of different rootstock had a significant
effect on root diameter. The maximum root diameter (2.51 mm) was recorded in
rootstock, S3 (MM106) which was followed by S1 (M7) having root diameter of
about 2.29 mm. Whereas, significantly minimum root diameter was recorded in S 2
(M9 T337): (1.88 mm).

So far as the effect of root diameter is concerned with the application of

different concentrations of growth hormone, the maximum root diameter (2.90
mm) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone, G 2 (IBA:
3000 ppm) which was significantly followed by the rootstock cuttings treated with
G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm): (1.98 mm). Contrastingly, the minimum root diameter (1.80
mm) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone, G 3 (IBA:
3500 ppm).

71
72
 Table 4.9: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on root diameter (mm)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 1.90 2.36 1.42 1.89 1.97 2.68 1.83 2.16 2.31 3.67 2.23 2.74 2.28 3.02 1.85 2.38 2.29
1.98

G 2=
69 S2 0.99 2.23 1.23 1.48 1.21 2.46 1.50 1.72 1.94 2.86 2.04 2.28 1.65 2.76 1.71 2.04 1.88
2.90
69

G 3=
S3 2.00 2.44 1.82 2.09 2.02 2.95 1.84 2.27 2.69 3.79 2.16 2.88 2.77 3.63 2.02 2.81 2.51
1.80

Mean 1.63 2.34 1.49 1.82 1.73 2.70 1.72 2.05 2.31 3.44 2.14 2.63 2.23 3.13 1.86 2.41

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.097 Rootstock x Rooting media = N/S
Growth hormone = 0.097 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.193
Rooting media = 0.167 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.335

73
 Different rooting media also had a significant influence on root diameter.
Maximum root diameter (2.63 mm) was observed in rooting media, M 3 (sand +
vermicompost + perlite (1:1:1)) followed significantly by M 4 (sand +
vermicompost + cocopeat (1:1:1)) and M2 (sand + vermicompost + vermiculite
(1:1:1)): (2.41 and 2.05 mm) respectively and the minimum root diameter (1.82
mm) was recorded in rooting media, M1 (sand + vermicompost (1:1)) in the year
2019.

The combined effect of rootstock and rooting media recorded non-

significant difference on root diameter. Maximum root diameter (2.88 mm) was
shown in S3M3 treatment combination which was followed with the treatment
combination of S3M4 (2.81 mm). Minimum root diameter (1.48 mm) was shown in
S2M1 treatment combination.

Interaction between growth hormone and rooting media was found

significant influence on root diameter, the highest root diameter (3.44 mm) was
recorded in G2M3 treatment combination which was followed with G2M4 treatment
combination (3.13 mm) and least root diameter was recorded in G 3M1 treatment
combination (1.49 mm).

The combined influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media

on root diameter showed that S3G2M3 treatment combination recorded
significantly highest root diameter (3.79 mm) which was significantly at par with
S1G2M3 treatment combination (3.67 mm) and S 3G2M4 treatment combination
(3.63 mm). S2G1M1 treatment combination was recorded significantly lowest root
diameter (0.99 mm) during 2019.

4.10 Number of roots per cutting

The data pertaining to number of roots per cuttings of apple clonal

rootstock cuttings as influenced by the growth hormone and rooting media.

It is clearly evident from the perusal of data, the rootstock significantly

affected the number of roots per cuttings. The maximum number of roots (8.88)

74
was recorded in S3 (MM106), which was statistically at par with S1 (M7) having
roots number of 8.02. Contrastingly, the minimum number of roots (7.00) was
recorded in S2 (M9 T337).

Effect of different concentrations of growth hormone on number of roots

per cuttings was recorded significantly more (9.91) in growth hormone
concentration, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) which was significantly followed by G1 (IBA:
2500 ppm) with 7.22 number of roots and less number of roots (6.77) was
recorded in growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) during the year 2019.

Significantly maximum number of roots (9.55) was recorded in rooting

media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) : (1:1:1) followed by M 4 (sand +
vermicompost + cocopeat) : (1:1:1) and M2 (sand + vermicompost + vermiculite)
(1:1:1) having with root number of 8.18 and 7.66 respectively. Minimum number
of roots (6.48) was observed in M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1).

The perusal of number of roots per cutting indicates that the rootstock and
rooting media exerted a non-significant effect number of roots per cutting. The
highest number of roots (10.77) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with
the combination of S3M3, which was followed with the treatment combination of
S1M3, having roots number of 9.88. However, the lowest number of roots (5.44)
was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with the combination of S2M1.

Similarly, so far as the number of roots per cutting is concerned, growth

hormone and rooting media showed non-significant effect on number of roots.
The maximum number of roots (11.77) was found in G2M3 treatment combination,
which was followed by G2M4 treatment combination having number of roots
10.22. The minimum number of roots (5.66) was found in G3M1 treatment
combination.

75
 Table 4.10: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on number of roots/cutting

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 6.00 8.00 5.33 6.44 6.33 10.00 6.00 7.44 9.00 11.66 9.00 9.88 8.00 10.33 6.66 8.33 8.02
7.22

G 2=
72 S2 4.66 6.66 5.00 5.44 6.33 9.66 5.66 7.22 6.66 10.66 6.66 8.00 6.00 10.00 6.00 7.33 7.00
9.91
72

G 3=
S3 7.00 9.00 6.66 7.55 8.00 9.66 7.33 8.33 10.00 13.00 9.33 10.77 8.66 10.33 7.66 8.88 8.88
6.77

Mean 5.88 7.88 5.66 6.48 6.88 9.77 6.33 7.66 8.55 11.77 8.33 9.55 7.55 10.22 6.77 8.18

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.983 Rootstock x Rooting media = N/S
Growth hormone = 0.983 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S
Rooting media = 1.136 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

76
 The perusal of the data presented in Table-4.10 also indicates that the
interaction of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media exhibited a non-
significant effect on number of roots per cutting of apple clonal rootstocks. The
maximum number of roots (13.00) was recorded in rootstock cuttings with
S3G2M3 treatment combination, which was non-significantly better than
combination of S1G2M3 and S2G2M3 (11.66 and 10.66) respectively. The minimum
number of roots (4.66) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with S 2G1M1
combination.

4.11 Average root length (cm)

The perusal of data (Table-4.11) revealed that the main effect of rootstock,
rooting media and growth hormone exhibited a significant influence on average
root length.

Average root length was observed maximum (30.19 cm) in case of

rootstock S3 (MM106) which was followed by S1 (M7) having average root length
value of about 28.33 cm and minimum average root length was resulted (25.08
cm) by S2 (M9 T337).

Different growth hormone concentrations revealed significant effect on

average root length. Highest average root length (31.88 cm) was recorded in
growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm): (26.52
cm) and lowest average root length (25.19 cm) was observed in G3 (IBA: 3500
ppm).

Rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost +

perlite) (1:1:1) recorded significantly maximum average root length (31.03 cm)
which was significantly followed by rooting media, M 4 (sand + vermicompost +
cocopeat) (1:1:1) and M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1) having the average root
length of 28.81 and 25.88 cm respectively . The rooting media, M2 (sand +
vermicompost + vermiculite) (1:1:1) registered the minimum average root length
(25.74 cm).

77
 Table 4.11: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on average root length (cm)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 27.00 30.33 21.00 26.11 26.66 30.00 22.66 26.44 30.00 35.33 28.33 31.22 29.33 32.33 27.00 29.55 28.33
26.52

G 2=
74
74 S2 18.33 29.00 24.00 23.77 20.00 24.33 24.33 22.88 22.33 34.00 27.33 27.88 21.00 32.00 24.33 25.77 25.08
31.88

G 3=
S3 28.33 31.33 23.66 27.77 29.00 30.66 24.00 27.88 35.00 38.33 28.66 34.00 31.33 35.00 27.00 31.11 30.19
25.19

Mean 24.55 30.22 22.88 25.88 25.22 28.33 23.66 25.74 29.11 35.88 28.11 31.03 27.22 33.11 26.11 28.81

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 1.026 Rootstock x Rooting media = N/S
Growth hormone = 1.026 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S
Rooting media = 1.185 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

78
 The interaction of rootstock and rooting media exerted a non-significant
effect on average root length. The maximum average root length (34.00 cm) was
recorded in S3M3 followed by S1M3 of having average root length of 31.22 cm.
Contrastingly, the minimum average root length (22.88 cm) was found in S2M2
interaction.

The combined influence between growth hormone and rooting media

exhibited a non-significant effect during year of study 2019. Maximum average
root length (35.88 cm) was noticed in G 2M3. The Minimum average root length
(22.88 cm) was noticed in G3M1.

The combined interaction effect between different rootstock, application of

growth hormone and rooting media exhibited non-significant effect on average
root length. Maximum average root length (38.33 cm) was noticed in S 3G2M3
treatment combination which was followed by S1G2M3 treatment combination
(35.33 cm) and S2G1M1 treatment combination was exhibited significantly
minimum average root length (18.33 cm).

4.12 Length of longest root per cutting (cm)

It is evident from Table-4.12 that length of longest root per cutting were
affected significantly by different rootstock, rooting media and growth hormone.
Maximum length of longest root (42.44 cm) was observed with rootstock, S 3
(MM106) which was significantly followed by S1 (M7): (36.91 cm) and minimum
length of longest root (29.63 cm) was recorded in rootstock, S2 (M9 T337).

The perusal of data on length of longest root per cutting indicates that the
different concentrations of growth hormone exerted a significant effect on length
of longest root. The maximum length of longest root (41.94 cm) was recorded in
rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) which was followed by
rootstock cuttings treated with G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) recording 35.16 cm length of
longest root. However, the minimum length of longest root (31.88 cm) was
recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

79
 Table 4.12: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on length of longest root/ cutting (cm)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 33.33 34.00 29.00 32.11 32.00 43.00 31.66 35.55 39.00 48.00 38.00 41.66 38.00 45.00 32.00 38.33 36.91
35.16

76 G 2=
76 S2 20.33 32.33 22.66 25.11 23.33 33.00 27.33 27.88 30.66 37.00 36.00 34.55 24.00 37.33 31.66 31.00 29.63
41.94

G 3=
S3 48.66 48.66 29.33 42.22 46.00 47.66 37.00 43.55 46.66 52.00 37.66 45.44 40.00 45.33 30.33 38.55 42.44
31.88

Mean 34.11 38.33 27.00 33.14 33.77 41.22 32.00 35.66 38.77 45.66 37.22 40.55 34.00 42.55 31.33 35.96

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.795 Rootstock x Rooting media = 1.590
Growth hormone = 0.795 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 1.590
Rooting media = 0.918 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 2.754

80
 So far as the rooting media was concerned, the maximum length of longest
root (40.55 cm) was recorded in rootstock planted in rooting media, M3 (sand +
vermicompost + perlite (1:1:1)) which was found significantly superior than other
rooting media. However, the minimum length of longest root (33.14 cm) was
observed in rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media, M 1 (sand + vermicompost
(1:1)).

The interaction of rootstock and rooting media also exerted a significant

effect on length of longest root per cutting. Highest length of longest root (45.44
cm) were recorded in S3M3. Lowest length of longest root (25.11 cm) was
recorded in S2M1.

The combined influence of growth hormone and rooting media had

significant effect on length of longest root per cutting during the year 2019. The
maximum length of longest root (45.66 cm) was recorded in rootstock cuttings
treated with G2M3 combination, which was followed by the rootstock with G 2M4
combination, recording 42.55 cm length of longest root. Contrastingly, the
minimum length of longest root (27.00 cm) was found in rootstock cuttings
treated with G3M1 combination.

The interaction effect of different rootstock, application of growth

hormone and rooting media showed significant influence on length of longest root
per cutting. Maximum length of longest root per cutting was noticed in S3G2M3
(52.00 cm) followed by S1G2M3 (48.00 cm) and Minimum length of longest root
was significantly noticed in S2G1M1 having with the value 20.33 cm.

4.13 Fresh weight of root (g)

Main effect of rootstock, rooting media and growth hormone was

significant as far as fresh weight of root was concerned during the year 2019.
Fresh weight of root was found to be highest (4.13 g) in the rootstock of S 3
(MM106) followed by S1 (M7) (3.22 g) and lowest (2.46 g) in the rootstock of S 2
(M9 T337).

81
 The perusal of data presented in Table-4.13 reveals that different
concentrations of growth hormone on rootstock exhibited a significant effect on
average fresh weight of roots. The maximum fresh weight of roots (4.41 g) was
recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) which was
followed by rootstock cuttings treated with G 1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) and G 3 (IBA:
3500 ppm) recording 2.91 g and 2.49 g fresh weight of roots respectively.

The maximum fresh weight of root (4.11 g) was obtained with rooting
media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) which was followed by M 4
(sand + vermicompost + cocopeat) (1:1:1) having 3.31 g and minimum fresh
weight of root (2.78 g) was obtained with rooting media, M 1 (sand +
vermicompost) (1:1) in 2019.

A significant influence upon the fresh weight of root was in case of

interaction between rootstock and rooting media. Fresh weight of root was found
to be maximum of 4.90 g in S3M3, which was followed by S1M3 (4.58 g) and
minimum fresh weight of root 2.03 g was recorded in S2M1.

The interaction of growth hormone and rooting media also noted a

significant effect on fresh weight of roots of apple clonal rootstocks. The
maximum fresh weight of roots (5.94 g) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated
with, G2M3 which was followed by G2M4 recording 4.57 g roots fresh weight,
respectively. Contrastingly, the minimum root fresh weight of 2.26 g was
recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G3M1.

Combined influence of different rootstock, application of growth hormone

and rooting media noticed significant effect on fresh weight of root. The highest
fresh weight of root (7.50 g) was attained with S 3G2M3 combination which was
followed by S2G2M3 (6.60 g) and lowest fresh weight of root (1.90 g) was
obtained with combination of S2G1M1.

82
 Table 4.13: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on fresh weight of root (g)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 2.10 2.36 2.10 2.18 2.36 3.26 2.26 2.63 3.70 6.60 3.46 4.58 3.16 4.73 2.53 3.47 3.22
2.91

G 2=
79 S2 1.90 2.23 1.96 2.03 2.23 2.76 2.03 2.34 2.60 3.73 2.26 2.86 2.20 3.60 2.03 2.61 2.46
79 4.41

G 3=
S3 4.16 5.50 2.73 4.13 3.10 5.30 2.56 3.65 4.00 7.50 3.20 4.90 3.40 5.40 2.80 3.86 4.13
2.49

Mean 2.72 3.36 2.26 2.78 2.56 3.77 2.28 2.87 3.43 5.94 2.97 4.11 2.92 4.57 2.45 3.31

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.066 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.132
Growth hormone = 0.066 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.132
Rooting media = 0.076 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.229

83
4.14 Fresh weight of shoot (g)

The fresh weight of shoot was also investigated in present study and data
pertaining to fresh weight of shoot of apple clonal rootstock cuttings as influenced
by the growth hormone and rooting media.

The data pertaining to effect of fresh weight of shoot indicates that the
maximum fresh weight of shoots (26.10 g) was recorded in cuttings of rootstock,
S3 (MM106) which was significantly higher than any other rootstock. However,
the minimum fresh weight of shoot (22.95 g) was recorded in S2 (M9 T337).

The perusal of data presented in Table-4.14 indicates that different

concentration of growth hormone exerted a significant effect on fresh weight of
shoot. The maximum fresh weight of shoot (26.33 g) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with growth hormone concentration, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) which
was followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) recording fresh shoot weight of 23.86 g. The
statistically minimum fresh weight of shoot (23.41 g) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with growth hormone concentration, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

Planting of rootstock in different rooting media revealed that rooting

media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite (1:1:1)) recorded maximum fresh
weight of shoot (26.10 g) whereas, rooting media M 2 (sand + vermicompost +
vermiculite (1:1:1)) resulted minimum fresh weight of shoot (23.65 g) during the
year 2019.

Different rootstock and rooting media had a pronounced influence on

increasing shoot fresh weight content. S3M3 resulted in maximum increase in fresh
weight of shoot of 28.62 g whereas S 2M1 recorded minimum increase in fresh
weight of shoot 21.53 g.

A significant influence upon fresh weight of shoot was noted in case of

interaction between growth hormone and rooting media. The G 2M3 interaction
recorded highest fresh weight of shoot (28.93 g).

84
 Table 4.14: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on fresh weight of shoot (g)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 23.70 25.10 22.76 23.85 23.90 25.40 23.43 24.24 24.73 27.00 24.23 25.32 24.20 26.30 23.70 24.73 24.53
23.86

G 2=
S2 21.03 22.40 21.16 21.53 21.26 22.73 22.33 22.11 22.90 26.50 23.73 24.37 22.76 25.76 22.90 23.81 22.95
81
81 26.33

G 3=
S3 25.40 30.50 22.60 26.16 24.70 25.20 23.90 24.60 26.73 33.30 25.83 28.62 25.03 25.76 24.33 25.04 26.10
23.41

Mean 23.37 26.60 22.17 23.85 23.28 24.44 23.22 23.65 24.78 28.93 24.60 26.10 24.00 25.94 23.64 24.53

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.074 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.148
Growth hormone = 0.074 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.148
Rooting media = 0.086 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.257

85
 The combined interaction between rootstock, growth hormone and rooting
media was observed to be statistically significant. The highest fresh weight of
shoot (33.30 g) was found with S3G2M3 combination which was followed
significantly by S3G2M1 combination (30.50 g). The minimum fresh weight of
shoot (21.03g) was found with S2G1M1 combination.

4.15 Dry weight of root (g)

The perusal of data pertaining to dry weight of root of rooted cuttings of

apple clonal rootstocks as influenced by the rootstock, rooting media and growth
hormone are presented in Table-4.15.

Different rootstock revealed significant difference in the year of study

2019. Highest dry weight of root (2.07 g) was recorded in rootstock, S 3 (MM106)
which was followed by S1 (M7) having (1.35 g). Lowest dry weight of root (1.06
g) was noticed in rootstock, S2 (M9 T337).

Application of growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded highest dry

weight of root (2.11 g) which was statistically followed by G 1 (IBA: 2500 ppm)
having with the value (1.37 g) and growth hormone, G 3 (IBA: 3500 ppm)
registered minimum dry weight of root (1.00 g).

It is clearly evident from the perusal of data indicated that rooting media
exerted a significant effect on dry weight of roots. The maximum dry weight of
roots (1.97 g) was recorded in rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media, M 3
(sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) which was significantly superior to any
other rooting media. The minimum dry weight of roots (1.08 g) was found in M 2
(sand + vermicompost + vermiculite) (1:1:1).

The interaction effect between rootstock and rooting media revealed

significant influence on dry weight of root. The highest dry weight of root (2.52 g)
was recorded in S3M3 treatment. The lowest dry weight of root (0.56 g) was
recorded in S2M1 treatment.

86
87
 Table 4.15: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on dry weight of root (g)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 0.71 1.06 0.58 0.78 1.02 1.07 0.87 0.98 1.79 2.51 1.44 1.91 1.57 2.43 1.18 1.72 1.35
1.37

G 2=
S2 0.49 0.66 0.54 0.56 0.63 0.73 0.67 0.68 1.35 2.44 0.68 1.49 1.25 2.34 0.99 1.53 1.06
2.11
83
83

G 3=
S3 2.08 3.20 0.99 2.09 1.69 2.15 0.93 1.59 2.36 3.56 1.66 2.52 1.55 3.21 1.52 2.09 2.07
1.00

Mean 1.09 1.64 0.70 1.14 1.11 1.31 0.82 1.08 1.83 2.83 1.26 1.97 1.46 2.66 1.23 1.78

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.065 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.131
Growth hormone = 0.065 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.131
Rooting media = 0.075 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.226

88
 A significant influence on dry weight of root was noted due to the
interaction effect of growth hormone and rooting media. The combination of
G2M3 recorded maximum dry weight of root (2.83 g) and it was followed by G 2M4
(2.66 g).

The combined influence between rootstock, application of growth

hormone and rooting media was exhibited a significant influence on dry weight of
root. Maximum dry weight of root (3.56 g) was noticed in S3G2M3 which was
followed by S3G2M4 (3.21 g) and S3G2M1 (3.20 g) respectively during 2019.

4.16 Dry weight of shoot (g)

It is evident from Table-4.16 that during year of study 2019, main effect of
rootstock, rooting media and growth hormone showed significant influence on dry
weight of shoot.

Maximum dry weight of shoot (13.58 g) was recorded in rootstock,

followed by rootstock, S3 (MM106) followed by S1 (M7): (12.65 g), while as
minimum dry weight of shoot was noticed in S2 (M9 T337): (11.85 g).

Significantly maximum dry weight of shoot (13.82 g) was observed in G 2

(IBA: 3000 ppm) growth hormone followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) growth
hormone (12.28 g) and minimum dry weight of shoot (11.97 g) was reported in G3
(IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

Different rooting media also affected the dry weight of shoot significantly
in the year of study 2019. Highest dry weight of shoot (13.65 g) was recorded in
rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1) followed by M 4 (sand +
vermicompost + cocopeat :: 1:1:1) having shoot dry weight of 12.72 g while as
lowest dry weight of shoot was registered in M 1 (sand + vermicompost :: 1:1)
having (12.15 g).

89
 Table 4.16: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on dry weight of shoot (g)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 11.75 13.27 11.13 12.05 12.13 13.52 11.63 12.43 12.92 14.21 12.47 13.20 12.48 13.92 12.36 12.92 12.65
12.28

G 2=
S2 10.56 11.28 10.65 10.83 10.86 12.13 11.45 11.48 11.94 14.12 12.35 12.80 11.66 13.29 11.92 12.29 11.85
85
85
13.82

G 3=
S3 12.95 16.20 11.58 13.58 12.84 13.14 12.44 12.81 13.98 17.66 13.25 14.96 13.26 13.15 12.47 12.96 13.58
11.97

Mean 11.75 13.58 11.12 12.15 11.94 12.93 11.84 12.24 12.94 15.33 12.69 13.65 12.46 13.45 12.25 12.72

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.071 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.143
Growth hormone = 0.071 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.143
Rooting media = 0.082 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.247

90
 Interaction of rootstock and rooting media also registered significant
influence on dry weight of shoot. The significantly highest dry weight of shoots
(14.96 g) was recorded in S 3M3 which was followed by S3M1 recording 13.58 g
dry weight of shoots. Contrastingly, the minimum dry weight of shoots (10.83 g)
was observed in rootstock cuttings treated with, S2M1.

Interaction effect of growth hormone and rooting media showed a

significant influence on dry weight of shoot. Maximum dry weight of shoot was
recorded in G2M3 combination (15.33 g).

The interaction effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media

also exerted a significant effect on dry weight of shoot. The maximum dry weight
of shoot (17.66 g) was recorded in S3G2M3, which was significantly better than all
other treatment combinations. Contrastingly, the minimum dry weight of shoot
was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with the combination of S2G1M1
recording 10.56 g.

4.17 Root : shoot ratio (dry weight basis)

The data indicated that the root: shoot ratio was significantly affected by
rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media during the year 2019. Rootstock, S1
(M7) recorded maximum root: shoot ratio (0.14) followed by S 3 (MM106): (0.10)
while as S2 (M9 T337) showed minimum root: shoot ratio (0.08).

Significantly higher root: shoot ratio (0.14) was observed in growth

hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm): (0.10) and lower
root: shoot ratio (0.07) was recorded in G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

Maximum root: shoot ratio (0.13) was recorded in rooting media, M3 (sand
+ vermicompost + vermiculite (1:1:1)), followed by M4 (sand + vermicompost +
cocopeat (1:1:1)): (0.11).

The interaction effect of rootstock and rooting media revealed significant

effect on root: shoot ratio. Maximum root: shoot ratio was obtained in S 3M3 (0.16)
which was followed by S3M4 (0.15) and Minimum root: shoot ratio was obtained

91
in S2M1 (0.04).

92
 Table 4.17: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on root : shoot ratio

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 0.05 0.07 0.04 0.05 0.08 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.13 0.17 0.11 0.13 0.12 0.17 0.09 0.12 0.10
0.10

G 2=
S2 0.04 0.05 0.05 0.04 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.11 0.16 0.05 0.10 0.10 0.17 0.07 0.11 0.08
0.14
87
87
G 3=
S3 0.15 0.19 0.08 0.14 0.12 0.16 0.06 0.11 0.16 0.19 0.12 0.16 0.11 0.23 0.11 0.15 0.14
0.07

Mean 0.08 0.10 0.05 0.08 0.08 0.09 0.06 0.08 0.13 0.17 0.09 0.13 0.11 0.19 0.09 0.11

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 0.005 Rootstock x Rooting media = 0.010
Growth hormone = 0.005 Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.010
Rooting media = 0.009 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = 0.018

93
 It is apparent from data presented in Table-4.17 that the application of
growth hormone and rooting media showed a significant effect on root: shoot
ratio. Highest root: shoot ratio, was recorded in G2M4 (0.19), it was followed by
G2M3 (0.17).

As evident from the perusal of data, the combined interaction of rootstock,

application of growth hormone and rooting media also exhibited a significant
effect on root: shoot ratio of apple clonal rootstocks. The maximum root: shoot
ratio (0.23) was recorded in rootstock cuttings with treatment combination
S3G2M4.

4.18 Rooted cuttings (%)

A significant influence on rooting percentage was noted due to rootstock,

growth hormone and rooting media (Table-4.18). Rootstock S 3 (MM106)
indicated maximum percentage of rooted cuttings to the tune of 53.05% followed
by S1 (M7) (45.27%). Whereas rootstock S2 (M9 T337) recorded minimum
percentage of rooted cuttings (40.27%).

Growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded the highest percentage of

rooted cuttings of 51.94% which was followed by G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm): (44.72%).
The lowest percentage of rooted cuttings (41.94%) was recorded under growth
hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1) registered

maximum percentage of rooted cuttings (52.59%) which was followed by rooting
media, M4 (sand + vermicompost + cocopeat :: 1:1:1): (47.03%) and rooting
media, M1 (sand + vermicompost :: 1:1) recorded minimum percentage of rooted
cuttings (41.48%).

Interaction of rootstock and rooting media together showed a non-

significant influence on percentage of rooted cuttings during the year 2019. The
interaction S3M3 recorded highest percentage of rooted cuttings (58.88%) which
was followed non-significantly by S3M4 (53.33%). The interaction S2M1 recorded

94
lowest percentage of rooted rootstock cuttings (35.55%).

95
 Table 4.18: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on rooted cuttings (%)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 36.66 40.00 40.00 38.88 40.00 46.66 43.33 43.33 50.00 56.66 50.00 52.22 43.33 50.00 46.66 46.66 45.27
44.72

G 2=
S2 33.33 43.33 30.00 35.55 36.66 43.33 33.33 37.77 46.66 53.33 40.00 46.66 40.00 46.66 36.66 41.11 40.27
51.94
89
89

G 3=
S3 50.00 60.00 40.00 50.00 50.00 53.33 46.66 50.00 56.66 66.66 53.33 58.88 53.33 63.33 43.33 53.33 53.05
41.94

Mean 40.00 47.77 36.66 41.48 42.22 47.77 41.11 43.70 51.11 58.88 47.78 52.59 45.55 53.33 42.22 47.03

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 3.100 Rootstock x Rooting media = N/S
Growth hormone = 3.100 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S
Rooting media = 3.580 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

96
 Interaction effect of application of different growth hormone and rooting
media had non-significant influence on percentage of rooted cuttings. The
interaction G2M3 revealed maximum percentage of rooted cuttings (58.88%)
which was followed by G2M4 (53.33%). G3M1 recorded lowest percentage of
rooted cuttings (36.66%).

The combination of different rootstock, application of different growth

hormone and rooting media was also found to be non-significant influence on
percentage of rooted cuttings. Maximum percentage of rooted cuttings (66.66%)
was noticed in S3G2M3, combination which was followed by S3G2M4 (63.33%)
and S2G3M1 recorded minimum percentage of rooted cuttings (30.00%).

4.19 Survival of cuttings (%)

The data pertaining to survival percentage of cuttings of apple clonal

rootstocks as influenced by different rooting media and growth hormone
treatments during the year 2019.

The perusal of data indicates that rootstock exerted significant effect on

survival percentage of cuttings. The highest survival percentage of cuttings
(73.61%) was recorded in S3 (MM106) rootstock which was followed by S1 (M7):
(70.27%). The minimum survival percentage of cuttings 70.00% was recorded in
S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

The growth hormone exerted a significant effect on survival percentage of

cuttings. The maximum survival percentage of cuttings (74.44%) was recorded in
rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth hormone which was
significantly at par with G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) growth hormone having (73.61%).
However, the minimum survival percentage of cuttings 65.83% was recorded in
rootstock cuttings treated with G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

Survival percentage of cuttings was observed significantly higher

(75.92%) in M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) rooting media which was
statistically at par with M4 (sand + vermicompost + cocopeat) (1:1:1) (74.07%).

97
While as minimum survival percentage of cuttings (66.66%) was recorded in
rooting media M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1).

As evident from the perusal of data tabulated, the interaction effect

between rootstock and rooting media exerted a significant effect on survival
percentage of cuttings. The maximum survival percentage of cuttings (81.11%)
was recorded in rootstock cuttings with treatment combination S 3M3, which was
statistically at par with treatment combination of S1M3 and S2M4 having survival
percentage of cuttings of 76.66 and 75.55%. However, the minimum survival
percentage of cuttings (63.33%) was found in rootstock cuttings with treatment
combination of S1M1.

It is clearly evident from the perusal of data presented in Table-4.19 that

interaction effect of growth hormone and rooting media on the survival
percentage of cuttings was found to be non-significant. The maximum survival
percentage of cuttings (80.00%) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with
G2M3, which was significantly better than any other treatments. Contrastingly, the
minimum survival percentage of cuttings (61.11%) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with G3M1.

There was non-significant effect exerted on interaction of rootstock,

growth hormone and rooting media on survival percentage of cuttings. The
maximum survival percentage of cuttings (86.66%) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with S3G2M3 combination. However, the minimum survival
percentage of cuttings (56.66%) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with
S1G3M1 combination.

98
 Table 4.19: Influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media on survival of cuttings (%)

M
M1 M2 M3 M4
S Sub Sub Sub Sub Factor
Mean
mean mean mean mean Mean
G G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G3 G1 G2 G1 G1 G2 G3

G 1=
S1 60.00 73.33 56.66 63.33 63.33 80.00 60.00 67.77 76.66 83.33 70.00 76.66 76.66 76.66 66.66 73.33 70.27
73.61

G 2=
92
92 S2 80.00 66.66 63.33 70.00 70.00 63.33 60.00 64.44 73.33 70.00 66.66 70.00 83.33 73.33 70.00 75.55 70.00
74.44

G 3=
S3 70.00 66.66 63.33 66.66 76.66 76.66 66.66 73.33 80.00 86.66 76.66 81.11 73.33 76.66 70.00 73.33 73.61
65.83

Mean 70.00 68.88 61.11 66.66 70.00 73.33 62.22 68.51 76.66 80.00 71.11 75.92 77.77 75.55 68.88 74.07

DARD: 29th March

S1 = M7 G1 = IBA 2500 ppm M1 = Sand + Vermicompost (1:1)
S2 = M9 (T-337) G2 = IBA 3000 ppm M2 = Sand + Vermicompost + Vermiculite (1:1:1)
S3 = MM106 G3 = IBA 3500 ppm M3 = Sand + Vermicompost + Perlite (1:1:1)
M4 = Sand + Vermicompost + Cocopeat (1:1:1)
C.D at 5%
Rootstock = 3.133 Rootstock x Rooting media = 6.266
Growth hormone = 3.133 Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S
Rooting media = 3.618 Rootstock x Growth hormone x Rooting media = N/S

99
Chapter-5

DISCUSSION

Propagation is broadly taken after to increase plants of craved structure

and keep up their virtue for commercial exploitation in numerous fruit crops. The
art of propagation by vegetative strategy has picked up ubiquity within the field of
cultivation in later a long time. Numerous of the horticultural crops which are
found to be troublesome to root are made to root effortlessly by utilizing plant
growth hormones, rooting media and propagation conditions. Clonal propagation
of rootstock through cuttings is of uncommon significance because it is an extra
apparatus to extend the production of rootstock to utilize the arial portion of stool
layers over uniting point. Tip portion of shoots are ordinarily disposed of since
they are ordinarily low in stored carbohydrates and regularly contain undesirable
bloom buds. This portion of rootstock can be utilized for cuttings and changed
over into virus free rooted plantlets to extend multiplication rate of clonal
rootstocks. Keeping in view these aspects this experiment was conducted. The
result obtained in the present investigation entitled “Response of Rooting Media
and Growth Hormone on the Rooting Behavior of Apple Clonal Rootstocks” are
discussed in the light of available literature as under.

5.1 Days taken to first leaf initiation

In the present study, the MM106 rootstock cuttings took essentially lesser
days for leaf initiation as compared to M7 and M9 T337 rootstock cuttings, which
may be due to avoidance of down-word translocation of carbohydrate and
collection of higher level of endogenous and exogenous auxins. MM106 cuttings
had more dry matter and more accumulates which might have come about earliest
completion of physiological prepare included in growing. All the concentration of
growth hormone altogether impacts on days taken to begin with leaf initiation.
Least number of days taken to first leaf initiation (15.22) was watched in
rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) development hormone. It may

100
be due to the fact that auxin application has been found to upgrade the histological
features like arrangement of callus and tissue and differentiation of vascular
tissue. IBA at a lower concentration was found to be way better to induct early
growing (Satpal et al., 2014). Chandramouli (2001) found that the increase in the
concentration of IBA significantly decreased the number of days taken to first leaf
initiation of cuttings and earliness in sprouting might be due to better utilization of
stored carbohydrates, nitrogen and other factors with the help of growth
regulators. Further, time taken for first leaf initiation was less within the rooting
media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) due to ideal nutrient take-up, aeriation
and upgraded accessibility of nutrients and growth advancing substances.
Combined impact of different types of rootstock cuttings, growth hormone and
establishing rooting media appeared critical impact on the days taken to first leaf
initiation. Our comes about are in assertion with those of Malakar et al. (2019)
who detailed that interaction of different types of cutting, rooting media and the
different doses of IBA essentially influenced the days taken for sprout initiation,
in acid lime cuttings. Kareem et al. (2016) detailed that the least days taken for
sprout initiation was about 22 days within the softwood cuttings of Gola variety of
guava treated with 4000 ppm IBA.

5.2 Sprouting of cuttings

In the present study, essentially higher sprouting percentage of cuttings

was recorded in S3 (MM106) rootstock cuttings which may be due to superior
utilization of stored carbohydrate, nitrogen and other factor. Application of
growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded altogether highest sprouting
percentage of rootstock cuttings. Rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost +
perlite) moreover brought about essentially most extreme sprouting percentage of
cuttings. Additionally, Siddiqui and Hussain (2007) had recorded most extreme
sprouting percentage of 48.25 per cent within the hardwood cuttings of Ficus
hawaii treated with 4000 ppm of IBA. The combination of distinctive rootstock
cuttings, growth hormone and rooting media was famous critical impact on

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sprouting rate. These results are similar with the finding of Bhatt and Tomar
(2011) in Citrus auriantifolia Swingle (Kagzi-lime). Lone and Sofi (2007)
examined the impact of IBA on rooting proficiency in two clonal Malling apple
rootstock M9 & M26 amid 2004 and 2005. Impact of the time of collection of the
cuttings and IBA concentration (1500, 2000, 3000 ppm) were examined in regard
of percent survival, callus growing and rhizogenesis. Essentially increment in per
cent survival, callusing, bud sprouting and rhizogenesis was watched in M26 than
M9 with the application of 2000 ppm IBA. The application of 2000 ppm IBA to
cuttings collected in moment week of June recorded the finest result.

5.3 Leaf area (cm2)

The study uncovered that altogether highest leaf area (26.21 cm²) was
recorded in rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings, growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000
ppm) and in rooting media (sand + vermicompost + perlite). Concurring to Nia et
al. (2015), culture media including manure, soil, peat, tea wastes and rice husks
have noteworthy impacts on cation exchange capacity and soil pH, air circulation
and water maintenance capacity of soils which progresses the retention of
nutritional components. The leaf area of the rooting cuttings has the coordinate
relation with the number of leaves as well as shoot growth. This results are in
conformity with Bhat (2000) who recorded the most extreme leaf area with the
treatment of IBA 500 ppm + borax 1% in pomegranate cuttings. Siddiqui and
Hussain (2007) who reported that when the cuttings treated with increasing
concentrations of IBA results in more number of roots which increased nutrient
uptake and aerial growth of the plants resulted in highest leaf area. This is in
conformity with Biasi et al. (1990), who made similar observation in kiwifruit in
which maximum leaf area was obtained with 4000 ppm IBA treatment given to
semi hardwood cuttings.

5.4 Fresh and dry weight of leaf (g)

The study uncovered that the cuttings of rootstock S3 (MM106) displayed

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the greatest fresh and dry leaf weight (9.87 and 3.79 g, respectively). Growth
hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) had essentially most noteworthy fresh and dry leaf
weight (10.11 and 3.50 g, respectively). Altogether most extreme fresh and dry
leaf weight (9.50 and 3.48 g, respectively) was recorded in rooting media, M3
(sand + vermicompost + perlite). The combined impact of rootstock, growth
hormone and rooting media appeared that greatest fresh and dry leaf weight
(13.10 and 5.20 g, respectively) was recorded in S3G2M3. Sukhjit kaur (2017) who
recorded significantly higher leaf weight (2.0 g) at 3000 ppm IBA treatments and
these parameter decreased with increase in IBA concentration above 3000 ppm. It
may be due to, need to improve the photosynthetic rate and to produce more
photosynthates by expanding their leaves and hence more leaf area was observed
(Sahab et al., 2013). The combined impact of these components on fresh weight
of leaf is specifically relative to dry weight. These discoveries are in similarity
with Singh and Rattanpa (2017) who recorded higher fresh and dry weight of
leaves per shoot (47.56 and 24.48 g, respectively) were recorded in plants treated
with IBA @ 1250 ppm and reported that the fresh and dry matter increased with
increase in the IBA concentration. These results are supported by the work of Mir
et al. (2016) wherein they had also obtained maximum fresh and dry weight in
vermicompost + FYM + azotobacter than the treatments used individually.

5.5 Number of leaves/cutting

The study revealed that the number of leaves per cutting was altogether
influenced by rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media. The most elevated
number of leaves (32.88) was recorded in S3 (MM106) rootstock cutting.. The
most extreme number of leaves (33.94) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated
with growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). The most extreme number of leaves
(32.96) was recorded in rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media M3 (sand +
vermicompost + perlite). It could be due to the growth favored by the nutrients
present in rooting media at root levels, resulting more number of leaves per
cuttings. The increased roots within the cuttings due to auxin movement may have

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improved the photosynthetic and other action carried out in leaves (Taiz and
Zeiger 2006). These findings are in accordance with Biasi et al. (1990) who
gotten most elevated number of leaves in kiwifruit cuttings collected in July-
August and treated with 4000 ppm IBA. Sadiq (1991) accomplished most extreme
number of leaves (21.25) in semi-hardwood stems cuttings of peach cv. Early
Grande treated with 400 ppm IBA. Mehta et al. (2018) briefed that 500 ppm IBA
treatment was advantageous for the rooting in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)
cuttings with regard to number of leaves on new shoots (10.66).

5.6 Shoot length and diameter

The present study uncovered that shoot length and diameter was
essentially influenced by rootstock cuttings, rooting media and growth hormone.
Altogether greatest shoot length and shoot breadth was recorded in S3 (MM106)
rootstock cuttings. It may moreover be due to easy translocation of water and
mineral nutrients to the over ground parts of the cuttings, driving to their quick
growth and multiplication. Shoot length and diameter was too essentially
influenced by growth hormone. Whereas most elevated shoot length and diameter
was uncovered beneath the treatment G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth hormone. It
may be due to the characteristic property of auxins for cell division and cell
elongation. Altogether greatest shoot length and diameter was watched in M3
(sand + vermicompost + perlite) rooting media. An appropriate rooting medium
generally has got to have an ideal volume of gas filled pore space and oxygen
dissemination rate adequate for desires of respiration (Fonteno and Nelson, 1990).
Concurring to Caron et al. (2000), media physical properties ought to not be
obliged to fair estimations of air-filled porosity, water holding capacity and bulk
thickness, but moreover gas exchange characteristics. In spite of the fact that not
much data is accessible on the impact of preconditioning treatment of shoot
growth, comes about are in assention with the discoveries of Iqbal et al. (1999)
with regard to auxin application, who detailed greatest shoot length was gotten in
apple cuttings treated with IBA 3000 ppm. Ahmed et al. (2001) who observed

104
highest rooting parameters in olive cuttings cv. Coratina and Frantoio, when
treated with IBA 4000 ppm, which might have further aided in faster development
of, shoot characters in such cuttings. Aier (1988), who also obtained greater shoot
diameter and length in plum cuttings applied with preconditioning and combined
with 3000 ppm IBA application.

5.7 Root diameter

The study uncovered that greatest root diameter (2.51 mm) was recorded
in rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings. Factors such as cultivar, age of trees, rooting
hormone, planting time and propagation environment may be critical components
influencing the rooting of cuttings (Bhusal et al., 2001). Too the genetic variety
was reflected within the contrasts watched among the varieties in their reaction to
IBA concentration (Owais, 2010). The greatest root diameter (2.90 mm) was
recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm).
Distinctive rooting media too had a noteworthy impact on root diameter. Most
extreme root diameter (2.63 mm) was watched in rooting media, M3 (sand +
vermicompost + perlite). The combined impact of rootstock, growth hormone and
rooting media on root diameter was shown that S3G2M3 treatment combination
was recorded altogether most noteworthy root diameter (3.79 mm). It may well be
due to the fact that rooting media containing perlite is recognized to have
interesting capillary activity which makes it a predominant growing medium for
expanding aeriation and waste since of its uniformity and lightness (Paradisco and
Pascale, 2008). The increment in root diameter in cuttings with application of
auxin treatment may be due to the useful impact of auxin in incitement of natural
reserves and their mobilization to the region of root arrangement (Doak, 1941)
These discoveries are moreover in assention with Abousalim et al. (1993), who
too watched most extreme number of roots and diameter in cuttings of olive when
treated with expanding level of IBA upto 4000 ppm. Douad et al. (1989) and
Nahlwai et al. (1975), moreover detailed an increment within the number of roots
and diameter with an increment within the IBA concentration in leafy cuttings of

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olive. This may be due to the impact of auxins that have been detailed to improve
rooting through the translocation of carbohydrates and other supplements to the
rooting zone (Milleton et al., 1980). Concurring to Davis and Hassig (1990), the
generation of adventitious roots in plants through cell division, multiplication and
specialization is additionally controlled by plant growth substances particularly
auxins. This infers that treating stem cuttings with auxins can increment the rate
of rooting, root start and number of roots. Indeed at that point, application of ideal
hormone concentration is exceptionally vital for effective establishing of cuttings
(Leakey et al., 1982).

5.8 Number of roots per cutting

The study uncovered that greatest the number of roots (8.88) was recorded
in S3 (MM106) cuttings. Impact of diverse concentrations of growth hormone on
number of roots per cuttings was recorded essentially more (9.91) in growth
hormone concentration, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). Essentially most extreme number of
roots (9.55) was recorded in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite).
This might due to the fact that the auxin promote cell division, elongation and
differentiation of cambial initials into root primordia and in the mobilization of
reserve food material to sites of root initiation there by giving higher number of
roots per cutting (Sharma, 1999). The acceptance of most extreme number of
roots within the treated cuttings may be due to the fact that cambial activity
included in root initiation is invigorated by growth regulators in numerous species
as opined by Ullah et al. (2005). El-Sabrout and El-Shazly (1994) whereas
examining propagation of MM106 apple rootstock through cuttings, recorded the
most noteworthy rooting (52.25%) with basal cuttings taken from supported
shoots and dipped in 2500 ppm IBA. Most elevated number of rooted shoots,
length of longest root and rooted grows with ringing of shoot bases + IBA 2500
ppm in apple rootstock MM106 through trench layering (Srivastava et al., 2006).
The method of adventitious root formation is affected by a number of inner and
outside factors (Davis et al., 1988). Among inside components, the foremost

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imperative part is credited to phytohormones, particularly the auxins. It is for the
most part acknowledged that auxins have a certain part in root initiation (Davis et
al., 1988; Hartman et al., 1997). Divisions of the first root initial cells are
subordinate on either endogenous or applied auxins (Hartman et al., 1997).

5.9 Average root length (cm)

The study uncovered that average root length was watched most extreme
(30.19 cm) by the rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings. Distinctive growth hormone
concentration uncovered critical impact on average root length. Most elevated
normal root length (31.88 cm) was recorded in growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000
ppm). Cuttings planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite)
recorded altogether greatest average root length (31.03 cm). The capacity of
synthetic auxins such as IBA to advance rooting amid propagation of fruit trees
such as apples is broadly detailed (Doric et al., 2014; Sharma et al., 2007; Khatik
and Sharma, 2013). Krieken et al. (1993) whereas examining the root regeneration
of stem cuts of apple shoots; watched that application of exogenous IBA upgrades
rooting through increased inner-free IBA, which synergistically alters synthesis
and activity of endogenous IAA and improves tissue sensitivity to endorgenous
IAA. The combined interaction impact between distinctive rootstock, application
of growth hormone and rooting media was displayed noteworthy contrast on
average root length amid the year 2019. Most extreme normal root length (38.33
cm) was taken note in S3G2M3 treatment combination. The comes about in
common are in assertion with the discoveries of Wagner and Oprita (1985) who
come to the same conclusion in sweet cherry that low auxin concentration cause
lower root numbers but increment its length and higher concentration increments
the root number and diminishes its length.. Application of IBA may have
activated the early anticlinal cell division and root primordial formation than and
considered way better than NAA (Ali et al., 2009). Agreeing to Ofori-Gyamfi
(1998), rooting performance depends on the sort of medium utilized within the
propagating structure. This is often so since the different materials and mixes of

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materials that can be utilized in rooting of cuttings give physical support, oxygen
and water (Kester et al., 1990).

5.10 Length of longest root per cutting (cm)

The study uncovered that that length of longest root per cutting were
influenced altogether by distinctive rootstock, rooting media and growth hormone.
Most extreme length of longest root (42.44 cm) was watched with rootstock, S3
(MM106) cuttings. The most extreme length of longest root (41.94 cm) was
recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). The most
extreme length of longest root (40.55 cm) was recorded in rootstock cuttings
planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite). The interaction
impact of diverse rootstock, application of growth hormone and rooting media
appeared noteworthy impact on length of longest root per cutting. Most extreme
length of longest root per cutting was taken note in S3G2M3 (52.00 cm) taken after
by S1G2M3 (48.0 cm). It may be due to the assimilation and translocation of auxin
compound in rooted cuttings and well drained rooting media is additionally
advanced the way better development of roots by penetration of roots. Pandey and
Upadhyay (1981) moreover recorded comparative perception was made by them
most elevated rooting, survival rate, number and length of roots per cutting in
peach hardwood cuttings with treatment of IBA 2000 ppm. The most noteworthy
total root length (6.2 m) was too recorded in MM111 apple clonal rootstock with
IBA 2500 ppm (Ramesh Chand 1999). Singh and Singh (2016) gotten longest
length of roots (13.63 cm) in semi-hardwood cuttings of sweet orange (Citrus
sinensis L. Osbeck) cv. Malta treated with 5000 ppm of IBA.

5.11 Fresh weight of root

The study revealed that primary impact of rootstock, rooting media and
growth hormone was critical as far as fresh weight of root was concerned amid the
year 2019. Fresh weight of root was found to be most elevated (4.13 g) within the
rootstock of S3 (MM106) cuttings. The greatest fresh weight of roots (4.41 g) was

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recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). Combined impact
of distinctive rootstock, application of growth hormone and rooting media taken
note noteworthy impact on fresh weight of root. The most elevated fresh weight of
root (7.50 g) was achieved with S3G2M3 combination. These perceptions are
backed by the discoveries of Bhat (2000) who gotten more noteworthy number,
diameter and length of root in pomegranate cuttings with IBA treatment (500
ppm) beside Borax 1% and subsequently come about in more prominent fresh and
dry weight of roots. The increase in fresh weight of the roots reflects the root
growth in terms of length as well as number therefore the cuttings with 7 days of
preconditioning heat treatment and 2500 ppm IBA application in apple was found
to be optimal. Hakim et al. (2018) reported fresh weight of shoots (10.80 and
12.60 g) treated with IBA 1500 ppm + NAA 1500 ppm + Biomix in pomegranate
(Punica granatum L.) cuttings cvs. Bhagwa and Ruby, repectively. Iqbal et al.
(1999) studied the effect of different concentrations of IBA on root initiation of
apple cuttings. IBA applied in five different concentrations (1000 ppm, 2000 ppm,
3000 ppm, 4000 ppm and 5000 ppm) to study number of days to bud sprouting,
number of shoots per cuttings, shoot length, number of leaves per cuttings,
number of roots per cutting, root length and survival percentage. Significant
effects were recorded for all the parameters except numbers of leaves per cuttings.

5.12 Fresh weight of shoot (g)

The study revealed that the highest fresh weight of shoots (26.10 g) was
recorded in cuttings of rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings. The most maximum fresh
weight of shoot (26.63 g) was recorded in cuttings treated with growth hormone
concentration, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost +
perlite) recorded most maximum fresh weight of shoot (26.10 g). The combined
interaction between rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media was found to
be measurably critical. The most noteworthy fresh weight of shoot (33.30 g) was
found with S3G2M3 combination. These out comes are in understanding with
discoveries of Chhukit (2009) who too observed highest total biomass in terms of

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fresh weight and dry weight of shoots in cuttings of kiwifruit planted in sand +
forest leaf compost + cocopeat (1:1:1). Gautam and Howard (1994) also recorded
that preconditioning treatments combined with IBA application resulted in better
shoot growth in hazelnut leafy cuttings. These findings are in close conformity
with Kuris et al. (1980) who reported that auxin promoted root formation in
cuttings of Organo, Mentha and Melissa and increased the fresh weight of shoots.
Similarly Hwang (1987) recorded highest fresh weight of shoots in semi-
hardwood cuttings of peach taken in late August or early September when treated
with IBA 3500 ppm + NAA 1500 ppm.

5.13 Dry weight of root (g)

The study revealed that highest dry weight of root (2.07 g) was recorded in
rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings. Application of growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000
ppm) recorded highest dry weight of root (2.11 g). Mainly due to higher metabolic
reserves for root initiation and growth as well as the higher rooting potential of
such cuttings. The maximum dry weight of roots (1.97 g) was recorded in cuttings
planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) which were
significantly superior to any other rooting media. The combined influence
between rootstock, application of growth hormone and rooting media was
exhibited a significant influence on dry weight of root. Maximum dry weight of
root (3.56 g) was noticed in S3G2M3. These observations are in agreement with the
findings of Dutra et al. (2002) who recorded the greater dry matter of roots as well
as highest rooting percentage and more number of roots with treatment of IBA in
the cuttings of peach cv. Diamante, Capdeboscq and BR-2.

5.14 Dry weight of shoot (g)

The study revealed that maximum dry weight of shoot (13.58 g) was
recorded in S3 (MM106) cuttings. Significantly maximum dry weight of shoot
(13.82 g) was observed in G 2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). Highest dry weight of shoot
(13.65 g) was recorded in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite). The

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interaction effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media also exerted a
significant effect on dry weight of shoot. The maximum dry weight of shoot
(17.66 g) was recorded in S3G2M3, which was significantly better than all other
treatment combinations. This may be due to auxins activate shoot growth resulted
in elongation of stems and leaves through cell division accounting for higher dry
weight of shoot. As the dry weight corresponds to fresh weight of shoots, similar
results have been obtained expect for interaction, therefore the similar reasoning
for higher dry weight. Similarly, Singh et al. (2015) reported average dry weight
of cutting (8.05 g) in case of lemon (Citrus limon Burm.) cv. pant lemon-1 planted
in soil + sand + cocopeat media. Further, Ahmad et al. (2016) suggested that
treating Dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) stem cuttings with 100 ppm of IBA
solution is best for increased dry weight (0.8 g). The findings of our study are also
in confirmation with the report of Hakim et al. (2018) in pomegranate cuttings.

5.15 Root: shoot ratio (dry weight basis)

The study uncovered that highest root:shoot ratio was recorded in S3

(MM106) cuttings. Essentially higher root: shoot ratio (0.14) was recorded in
growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). Most extreme root: shoot ratio (0.13) was
recorded in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + Vermiculite). The
combined interaction of rootstock, application of growth hormone and rooting
media moreover shown a critical impact on root: shoot ratio of apple clonal
rootstocks. The greatest root: shoot proportion (0.23) was recorded in cuttings
with treatment combination S3G2M4. Plants with a better extent of roots can
compete more successfully for soil nutrients, whereas those with higher extent of
shoot can collect more light energy. Expansive extents of shoot generation are
characteristics of plants in early stage, whereas high proportions of root
generation are characteristics of late stage. These comes about are in congruity
with Joshi et al. (1987) who detailed most extreme roots per stool shoot of Merton
793 rootstock. Murthy et al. (2010) reported that exogenous application of auxin
seems to activate sugar metabolism for release of energy and protein which are

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necessary for cell division and differentiation during adventitious root primordial
initiation or development in the rooting zone of shoot cuttings.

5.16 Rooted cuttings (%)

The study uncovered that critical impact on rooting percentage was noted
due to rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media. Rootstock S3 (MM106)
shown most extreme percentage of rooted cuttings to the tune of 53.05%.Growth
hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded the most elevated percentage of rooted
cuttings of 51.94%. Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) enlisted
greatest percentage of rooted cuttings (52.59%). The variation in response with
regard to distinctive treatment was may be due to capacity of cuttings to resist the
conditions, characteristic growth hormone, etc. In expansion to that when growth
hormone were being utilized for boosting the rooting of cuttings can be credited
by the great conditions like ideal temperature (25-30 ℃) and high relative
humidity (80-90%) which may advance way better rooting in cutting. Pandit et al.
(2011) also reported that highest rooting percent, maximum number and length of
primary roots were obtained with 3000 ppm IBA with rootstock MM106 and
MM111. These observations are also in agreement with the findings of Dutra et
al. (2002) who recorded the highest rooting percentage, more number of roots and
greater dry matter of roots with treatment of IBA in the cuttings of peach cv.
Diamante, Capdeboscq and BR-2. Ryugo and Breen (1974) proposed that the
principal role of IBA is to favor the conjugation between endogenous IAA and
amino acids, which leads to the synthesis of the specific proteins necessary for
formation of root initials. Suriyapananot (1990) observed that among three apple
rootstock cuttings (MM-106, Indonesian and Marubakaido N-1), Marubakaido N-
1 cuttings gave highest rooting percentage (98.2%), when treated with 8000 ppm
IBA. The rooting in apple rootstocks may be increased by wounding and use of
growth regulators such as IBA (Gomma et al., 1989). Badiyala and Badyal (1986)
observed 100 per cent rooting and 68 per cent field survival in pecan nut with IBA
5000 ppm on stooling five shoots per stool.

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5.17 Survival of cuttings (%)

The present investigation showed that rootstock exerted significant impact

on survival percentage of cuttings. The most elevated survival percentage of
cuttings was recorded in S3 (MM106) rootstock cuttings. It may be due to capacity
of the rooting media and plant growth hormone to supply nutrients and air
circulation required for fast acclimatization. The growth hormone applied a
significant impact on survival percentage of cuttings. The most extreme survival
percentage of cuttings (74.44%) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G2
(IBA: 3000 ppm). Survival percentage of cuttings was watched essentially higher
(75.92%) in M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite). It may be due to the reality that
a great growing medium will give adequate support for the plant serve as a supply
for nutrients and water (Agro, 1998). Comes about are in assentation with
discoveries of Choudhary et al. (2014) who too watched 100 per cent survival in
plants transferred to plastic bag containing sand, soil and vermicompost in
proportion of 1:1:1. It may be due to development of effective root system and
increase in number and length of roots per cutting as influenced by the uptake of
nutrients and water (Rajeswara et al., 2008). Badshah et al. (1995) detailed that
3000 ppm IBA is the ideal concentration for rooting of M26 and M27 apple
rootstock cuttings because it come about within the most noteworthy growing and
survival rate. Gupta and Brahmachari (2004) observed that growth regulators,
whether independently or in combination, altogether improved the rooting and
survival of stools in custard apple. Howard et al. (1983) detailed an increased air
circulation of the rooting medium, through increased water suction, diminished
cutting death at super-optimal IBA concentration and expanded rooting. In
expansion, high compost temperature upgraded the reaction to sub-optimal and
ideal IBA concentrations.

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Chapter-6

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The present investigation entitled “Response of Rooting Media and

Growth Hormone on the Rooting Behavior of Apple Clonal Rootstocks” was
conducted under poly house at divisional form of division of fruit science,
SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Srinagar amid 2019-20. The objectives were to study the
response of rooting media and IBA on rooting potential of hardwood cuttings of
apple and best combination of media and IBA concentration on rooting potential
of apple rootstock. The salient findings of the present investigation are
summarised below:

 The results revealed that minimum number of days to first leaf

initiation (16.02) were observed in rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings.
However, the maximum number of days taken to first leaf initiation
(21.27) was observed in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

 Minimum number of days taken to first leaf initiation (15.22) were

observed in rootstock cuttings treated with G 2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth
hormone. While as maximum number of days taken to first leaf
initiation (19.61) were observed in G1 (IBA: 2500 ppm) growth
hormone. Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1)
exhibited less number of days taken to first leaf initiation (14.63).

 Combined effect of rootstock cuttings, growth hormone and rooting

media showed significant influence on the days taken to first leaf
initiation. The interaction S3G2M3 observed lowest number of days
taken to first leaf initiation (12.33). Highest number of days taken to
first leaf initiation registered in S2G1M1 (34.33).

 Due to significant effect of rootstock cuttings, it was noticed that

rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings recorded highest sprouting percentage

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 of cuttings (89.44%) and S2 (M9 T337) recorded lowest recorded
lowest sprouting percentage of cuttings (81.38%).

 Application of growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded

significantly maximum sprouting percentage of cuttings (90.00%) and
the minimum sprouting percentage of cuttings (78.05%) resulted in
growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) :: (1:1:1) also

showed significantly maximum sprouting percentage of cuttings
(88.51%). Minimum sprouting percentage of cuttings observed in M2:
sand + vermicompost + vermiculite :: 1:1:1 (80.00%).

 Sprouting percentage of cuttings was recorded to be maximum (100%)

in combination of S3G2M3 and S1G2M3. The lowest sprouting percentage
of cuttings was recorded to be 60.00% in combination of S1G3M1.

 Significantly maximum leaf area (26.21 cm²) was recorded in

rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings. Minimum leaf area (20.68 cm²) was
recorded in rootstock, S2 (M9 T337).

 Significantly highest leaf area (28.78cm²) was observed with the

growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) Lowest leaf area (20.42 cm²)
was observed with the influence of growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500
ppm).

 Highest leaf area (28.98 cm²) was recorded in rooting media, M3 (sand
+ vermicompost + perlite) :: (1:1:1). Minimum leaf area was observed
in rooting media M1 (sand + vermicompost) :: (1:1) (20.80 cm²).

 Highest leaf area was recorded in S 3G2M3 (35.23 cm²), which was
statistically at par with treatment combination of S1G2M3, S3G1M3 and
S3G2M4 having leaf area of 35.20, 35.16 and 33.00 cm². The lowest leaf
area (14.83 cm²) was recorded in S2G1M1 combination.

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 Significantly maximum fresh weight of leaf (9.87 g) was recorded in
S3 (MM106) rootstock followed by the rootstock S 1 (M7): (8.60 g).
Minimum fresh weight of leaf (6.53 g) was observed in rootstock S 2
(M9 T337).

 Application of growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) resulted in

highest fresh weight of leaf of about 10.11 g. Lowest fresh weight of
leaf (7.15 g) was recorded in growth hormone G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Significantly highest fresh weight of leaf (9.50 g) was shown by

rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) and the
lowest fresh weight of leaf (7.35 g) was revealed by rooting media M 1
(sand + vermicompost) (1:1).

 The interaction of S3G2M3 combination registered highest fresh weight

of leaf (13.10 g) followed by the fresh weight of leaf (12.20 g) S 3G2M4
treatment combination. The interaction of S2G1M1 combination had
registered least result on fresh weight of leaf (4.40 g).

 Rootstock S3 (MM106) cuttings exhibited the maximum dry weight of

leaf (3.79 g). Rootstock S2 (M9 T337) registered minimum dry weight
of leaf (2.27 g).

 Growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) had significantly highest dry

weight of leaf (3.50 g). Growth hormone G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) had
significantly lowest dry weight of leaf (2.69 g).

 Significantly maximum dry weight of leaf (3.48 g) was recorded in

rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1).
Significantly minimum dry weight of leaf was observed in rooting
media M1 (sand + vermicompost :: 1:1) (2.68 g).

 The combined effect of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting media

showed that maximum dry weight of leaf (5.20 g) was recorded in

116
 S3G2M3 which was significantly followed by S3G1M3 (4.70 g) and
minimum dry weight of leaf (1.60 g) was recorded in S2G1M1.

 The highest number of leaves (32.88) were recorded in S3 (MM106)

rootstock cuttings. Minimum number of leaves (26.30) was observed
in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

 The maximum number of leaves (33.94) was recorded in rootstock

cuttings treated with growth hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm. However,
the minimum number of leaves (26.38) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with growth hormone G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 The maximum number of leaves (32.96) was recorded in rootstock

cuttings planted in rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite ::
1:1:1). Contrastingly, the minimum number of leaves (26.63) was
found in rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media M2 (sand +
vermicompost + vermiculite :: 1:1:1).

 Number of leaves was highest in the combination of S3G2M3 was

revealed that (47.33) which was followed by S 3G1M4 (42.66). S2G1M1
combination was resulted minimum number of leaves (20.33).

 Significantly maximum shoot length (54.68 cm) was recorded in S 3

(MM106) rootstock cuttings. Minimum shoot length (47.10 cm) was
recorded in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock.

 Highest shoot length (56.53 cm) was revealed under the treatment G 2
(IBA: 3000 ppm) growth hormone. Lowest shoot length (47.31 cm)
was revealed under treatment G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

 Significantly maximum shoot length (54.02 cm) was observed in M 3

(sand + vermicompost + perlite :: 1:1:1) rooting media. While as
minimum shoot length (47.89 cm) was registered in M 2 (sand +
vermicompost + vermiculite :: 1:1:1) rooting media.

117
 The maximum shoot length (65.00 cm) was revealed in the treatment
combination of S3G2M3 and the minimum shoot length (42.60 cm) was
revealed in the combination of S2G1M1.

 Rootstock S3 (MM106) cuttings showed maximum shoot diameter

(4.10 mm). Minimum shoot diameter (3.54 mm) was observed in S 2
(M9 T337) rootstock.

 Highest shoot diameter was observed in G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth

hormone (4.14 mm). Lowest shoot diameter (3.52 mm) was observed
in G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

 Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) resulted

maximum shoot diameter (4.11 mm). Minimum shoot diameter
observed in M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1) was 3.56 mm.

 The combination of S3G2M3was revealed the maximum shoot diameter

(4.98 mm) which is followed by S1G2M4 (4.59 mm), the combination
of S2G3M2 was revealed the minimum shoot diameter (3.02 mm).

 The maximum root diameter (2.51 mm) was recorded in rootstock, S 3

(MM106) cuttings. Whereas, minimum root diameter was recorded in
S2 (M9 T337): (1.88 mm).

 Maximum root diameter (2.90 mm) was recorded in rootstock cuttings

treated with growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) Contrastingly, the
minimum root diameter (1.80 mm) was recorded in rootstock cuttings
treated with growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Maximum root diameter (2.63 mm) was observed in rooting media, M 3

(sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) and the minimum root
diameter (1.82 mm) was recorded in rooting media, M 1 (sand +
vermicompost) (1:1).

 The combined influence of rootstock, growth hormone and rooting

118
 media on root diameter was indicated that S3G2M3 treatment
combination was recorded significantly highest root diameter (3.79
mm) and S3G2M4 treatment combination (3.63 mm). S2G1M1 treatment
combination was recorded significantly lowest root diameter (0.99
mm).

 The maximum the number of roots (8.88) was recorded in S 3 (MM106)

cuttings. Contrastingly, the minimum number of roots (7.00) was
recorded in S2 (M9 T337).

 Effect of different concentrations of growth hormone on number of

roots per cuttings was recorded significantly more (9.91) in growth
hormone concentration, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) and less number of roots
(6.77) was recorded in growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Significantly maximum number of roots (9.55) was recorded in rooting

media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1). Minimum number
of roots (6.48) was observed in M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1).

 The maximum number of roots 13.00 was recorded in rootstock

cuttings with S3G2M3 treatment combination, which was non-
significantly better than combination of S1G2M3 and S2G2M3 (11.66 and
10.66) respectively. The minimum number of roots 4.66 was recorded
in rootstock cuttings treated with S2G1M1 combination.

 Average root length was observed maximum (30.19 cm) by the

rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings and minimum value of average root
length was resulted (25.08 cm) by S2 (M9 T337).

 Highest average root length (31.88 cm) was recorded in growth

hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) and lowest average root length (25.19
cm) was observed in G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost

119
 + perlite (1:1:1)) recorded significantly maximum average root length
(31.03 cm). The rooting media, M2 (sand + vermicompost +
vermiculite (1:1:1)) registered the minimum average root length (25.74
cm).

 Maximum average root length (38.33 cm) was noticed in S 3G2M3

treatment combination which was followed by S1G2M3 treatment
combination (35.33 cm) and S2G1M1 treatment combination was
exhibited significantly minimum average root length (18.33 cm).

 Maximum length of longest root (42.44 cm) was observed with

rootstock, S3 (MM106) cuttings and minimum length of longest root
(29.63 cm) was recorded in rootstock, S2 (M9 T337).

 The maximum length of longest root (41.94 cm) was recorded in

rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm). However, the
minimum length of longest root (31.88 cm) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 The maximum length of longest root (40.55 cm) was recorded in

rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost
+ perlite :: 1:1:1) which was found to be superior to other rooting
media. However, the minimum length of longest root (33.14 cm) was
observed in rootstock cuttings planted in rooting media, M 1 (sand +
vermicompost :: 1:1).

 Maximum length of longest root per cutting was noticed in S 3G2M3

(52.00 cm) followed by S 1G2M3 (48.00 cm) and minimum length of
longest root was significantly noticed in S2G1M1 having with the value
20.33 cm.

 Fresh weight of root was found to be highest (4.13 g) in the rootstock

of S3 (MM106) cuttings and lowest (2.46 g) in the rootstock of S2 (M9
T337).

120
 The maximum fresh weight of roots (4.41 g) was recorded in rootstock
cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) and G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm)
recording 2.91 g and 2.49 g fresh weight of roots respectively.

 The maximum fresh weight of root (4.11 g) was obtained with rooting
media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite (1:1:1)) and minimum fresh
weight of root (2.78 g) was obtained with rooting media, M 1 (sand +
vermicompost (1:1)).

 The highest fresh weight of root (7.50 g) was attained with S 3G2M3
combination which was followed by S2G2M3 (6.60 g) and lowest fresh
weight of root (1.90 g) was obtained with combination of S2G1M1.

 The data pertaining to effect of fresh weight of shoot indicates that the
maximum fresh weight of shoots (26.10 g) was recorded in cuttings of
rootstock, S3 (MM106). However, the minimum fresh weight of shoot
(22.95 g) was recorded in S2 (M9 T337).

 The maximum fresh weight of shoot (26.63 g) was recorded in

rootstock cuttings treated with growth hormone concentration, G2
(IBA: 3000 ppm). The statistically minimum fresh weight of shoot
(23.41 g) was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with growth
hormone concentration, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Planting of rootstock cuttings in different rooting media revealed that

rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) recorded
maximum fresh weight of shoot (26.10 g) whereas, rooting media M 2
(sand + vermicompost + vermiculite) (1:1:1) resulted minimum fresh
weight of shoot (23.65 g).

 The highest fresh weight of shoot (33.30 g) was found with S 3G2M3
combination which was followed significantly by S3G2M1 combination
(30.50 g).The minimum fresh weight of shoot (21.03 g) was found
with S2G3M1 combination.

121
 Highest dry weight of root (2.07 g) was recorded in rootstock, S 3
(MM106) cuttings. Lowest dry weight of root (1.06 g) was noticed in
rootstock, S2 (M9 T337).

 Application of growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded highest

dry weight of root (2.11 g) and G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) registered
minimum dry weight of root (1.00 g).

 The maximum dry weight of roots (1.97 g) was recorded in rootstock

cuttings planted in rooting media, M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite ::
1:1:1).The minimum dry weight of roots (1.08 g) was found in M 2
(sand + vermicompost + vermiculite :: 1:1:1).

 Maximum dry weight of root (3.56 g) was noticed in S 3G2M3 which

was followed by S3G2M4 (3.21 g) and S3G2M1 (3.20 g) respectively.

 Maximum dry weight of shoot (13.58 g) was recorded in rootstock,

while as minimum dry weight of shoot was noticed in S2 (M9 T337):
(11.85 g).

 Significantly maximum dry weight of shoot (13.82 g) was observed in

G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth and minimum dry weight of shoot (11.97
g) was reported in G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm) growth hormone.

 Highest dry weight of shoot (13.65 g) was recorded in rooting media,

M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) while as lowest dry weight
of shoot was registered in M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1) having
(12.15 g).

 The maximum dry weight of shoot (17.66 g) was recorded in S 3G2M3,

which was significantly better than all other treatment combinations.
Contrastingly, the minimum dry weight of shoot was recorded in
rootstock cuttings treated with the combination of S2G1M1 recording
10.56 g.

122
 Rootstock, S3 (MM106) recorded maximum root: shoot ratio (0.14).
Significantly higher root: shoot ratio (0.14) was observed in growth
hormone G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) and lower root: shoot ratio (0.07) was
recorded in G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm). Maximum root: shoot ratio (0.13)
was recorded in rooting media, M4 (sand + vermicompost + cocopeat
(1:1:1)). The maximum root: shoot ratio (0.23) was recorded in
cuttings with treatment combination S3G2M4.

 Rootstock S3 (MM106) cuttings indicated maximum percentage of

rooted cuttings to the tune of 53.05% followed by S1 (M7) (45.27%).
Whereas rootstock S2 (M9 T337) recorded minimum percentage of
rooted cuttings (40.27%).

 Growth hormone, G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) recorded the highest percentage

of rooted cuttings of 51.94%. The lowest percentage of rooted cuttings
(41.94%) was recorded under growth hormone, G3 (IBA: 3500 ppm).

 Rooting media M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite) (1:1:1) registered

maximum percentage of rooted cuttings (52.59%) and rooting media,
M1 (sand + vermicompost) (1:1) recorded minimum percentage of
rooted cuttings (41.48%).

 Maximum percentage of rooted cuttings (66.66%) was noticed in

S3G2M3, combination which was followed by S3G2M4 (63.33%) and
S2G3M1 recorded minimum percentage of rooted cuttings (30.00%).

 The highest survival percentage of cuttings (73.61%) was recorded in

S3 (MM106) rootstock cuttings. The minimum survival percentage of
cuttings 70.00% was recorded in S2 (M9 T337) rootstock cuttings.

 The maximum survival percentage of cuttings (74.44%) was recorded

in rootstock cuttings treated with G2 (IBA: 3000 ppm) growth
hormone. However, the minimum survival percentage of cuttings
65.83% was recorded in rootstock cuttings treated with G3 (IBA: 3500

123
 ppm) growth hormone.

 Survival percentage of cuttings was observed significantly higher

(75.92%) in M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite (1:1:1)) rooting media,
while as minimum survival percentage of cuttings (66.66%) was
recorded in M1 (sand + vermicompost (1:1)) rooting media.

 The maximum survival percentage of cuttings (86.66%) was recorded

in rootstock cuttings treated with S3G2M3 combination. However, the
minimum survival percentage of cuttings (56.66%) was recorded in
rootstock cuttings treated with S1G3M1 combination.

CONCLUSION

From the present investigation, can be concluded that rooting capacity

changes with genotype, rooting media, growth hormone concentration, etc.
Moreover the hardwood cuttings of MM106 clonal rootstock with treatment
combination of G2 (IBA: 3000ppm) and M3 (sand + vermicompost + perlite)
(1:1:1) were superior to induce more shooting and rooting parameters. The result
obtained from the present investigation, can be utilized to create a convention for
generation of quality planting material of apple clonal rootstocks through cuttings.

124
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