IV: PLANT PROPAGATION

a. Factor influencing rooting of cutting and layering.

b. Physiological basis of adventitious root in cutting.
c. Graft incompatibilty and stock scion relationship.
d. Methods of vegetative propagation-Budding.
e. Methods of vegetative propagation-Grafting
 PLANT
PROPAGATION
Plant propagation is the process of
creating new plants from existing
ones. It is a fundamental practice in
horticulture, agriculture, and
forestry. This presentation will
explore the various methods of
plant propagation, their advantages
and disadvantages, and the
importance of this practice.
 METHODS OF PLANT
PROPAGATION
Sexual Propagation: This method involves Asexual Propagation: This method
using seeds to create new plants. Seeds involves using vegetative parts of a plant,
are produced through the fertilization of a such as stems, roots, or leaves, to create
flower, resulting in a genetically diverse new plants genetically identical to the
offspring. parent plant.
• Advantages: • Advantages:
 Produces a large number of plants.  Produces plants with consistent traits.
 Offers genetic variation, leading to new Faster than sexual propagation.
and improved varieties.  Allows for the preservation of rare or
• Disadvantages: desirable varieties.
 Can be time-consuming, as seeds need • Disadvantages:
to germinate and grow.  Limited genetic diversity.
 May result in unpredictable traits due to  May be susceptible to diseases or pests.
genetic diversity.
 COMMON ASEXUAL PROPAGATION
METHODS
• CUTTINGS: Taking a section of stem, leaf, or root and
placing it in a suitable medium to encourage root
development.

• Grafting: Joining a scion (deuttings: sired variety) to a

rootstock (compatible plant) to create a new plant with
the desired characteristics.

• Layering: Bending a stem to the ground and burying a

portion to induce root growth.
• Division: Separating a plant into smaller portions,
each with its own roots and shoots.

• Tissue Culture: A laboratory technique using

small plant tissues to produce a large number
of identical plants.
> is the growth of tissues or
cells in an artificial medium
separate from the parent
organism. This technique is also
called micropropagation.
Sexual Propagation.
a. Factor influencing rooting of cutting and layering.
Factors Influencing Rooting of Cuttings:
• Plant Species: Different plant species have varying rooting abilities. Some
species, like willow and rose, root easily, while others, like pine and oak, are
more challenging.
• Cutting Type: The type of cutting used (e.g., stem cutting, leaf cutting, root
cutting) can significantly impact success. Stem cuttings are the most common
and generally easier to root than other types.
• Cutting Maturity: The maturity of the cutting influences its rooting potential.
Generally, semi-hardwood cuttings, taken from new growth that has partially
matured, are most successful.
• Hormones: Applying a rooting hormone to the base of the cutting can
stimulate root development. These hormones help promote cell division and
root formation
• Environmental Conditions:
The environment where the cuttings are placed plays a crucial role:
 Temperature: Optimal temperatures for root development vary by species,
but typically range from 65-75°F (18-24°C).
 Humidity: High humidity levels help prevent cuttings from drying out,
promoting root formation.
 Light: Cuttings generally need bright, indirect light for optimal rooting.
Substrate: The rooting medium should be well-draining but retain moisture.
It should also be free of diseases and pests.
• Time of Year: The best time for rooting cuttings often coincides with the
plant's natural growth cycle. For most plants, this is during the spring or early
summer.
Factors Influencing Success of Layering:
• Plant Species: Layering techniques are generally more
successful with plants that naturally layer easily, such as
raspberries and grapes.
• Layering Method: Different layering methods, like air
layering, tip layering, and simple layering, have varying
degrees of success depending on the plant species and desired
outcome.
• Time of Year: Similar to cuttings, layering is often most
successful during the plant's active growth period, typically
spring or early summer.
• Environmental Conditions: Maintaining optimal moisture,
humidity, and temperature levels is crucial for successful
layering.
•
 b. Physiological basis of adventitious root in cutting.
The Physiological Basis of Adventitious Root Formation in Cuttings
Adventitious roots, roots that develop from non-root tissues, are crucial for the successful
propagation of plants through cuttings. Understanding the physiological processes involved in
their formation is essential for optimizing cutting propagation techniques and improving plant
survival. This report will delve into the key factors influencing adventitious root development
in cuttings, focusing on the interplay of plant hormones, cellular reprogramming, and
environmental influences.

1. Hormonal Regulation: A Symphony of Signals Plant hormones play a pivotal role in

orchestrating adventitious root formation. While auxin is widely recognized as the primary
driver, other hormones contribute significantly to the process:
• Auxin: The primary driver of adventitious root initiation. Auxin, particularly indole-3-acetic
acid (IAA), accumulates in the cutting base following excision, triggering the
reprogramming of cells into root-competent cells.
• Cytokinins: While generally known for promoting shoot growth, cytokinins can also play a
role in adventitious root formation. They can enhance root development by promoting
cell division and differentiation, but their precise role is complex and can vary depending
on the plant species.
• Gibberellins: Gibberellins (GAs) are primarily known for promoting stem elongation, but
they can also influence adventitious root formation. In some cases, GAs can enhance
rooting by promoting cell division and elongation.
• Ethylene: Ethylene, a gaseous hormone, can stimulate adventitious root formation in
certain cuttings. It plays a role in root emergence and the development of aerenchyma,
specialized tissues that facilitate gas exchange in flooded conditions.
• Abscisic Acid (ABA): ABA is primarily known for its role in stress responses, but it can also
influence adventitious root formation. In some cases, ABA can inhibit root development,
while in others, it can promote root formation.
Environmental Influence: Shaping the Rooting Environment
Environmental factors play a crucial role in influencing adventitious root formation.
These factors can significantly impact the success of cutting propagation:

Temperature: Optimal temperatures for root development vary depending on the plant
species. Generally, temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) are suitable for root
formation.
Humidity: High humidity levels help prevent cuttings from drying out, promoting root
formation.

Light: Cuttings generally need bright, indirect light for optimal rooting. Excessive direct
sunlight can lead to dehydration and inhibit root development.

Substrate: The rooting medium should be well-draining but retain moisture. It should also
be free of diseases and pests. A suitable substrate provides the necessary physical support
and aeration for root development.
2.Cellular Reprogramming: From Stem to Root.
The formation of adventitious roots involves a remarkable process of cellular
reprogramming. Cells in the cutting base, initially destined for stem development, are
reprogrammed to become root-competent cells.

This involves several key steps:

• Dedifferentiation: Cells in the cutting base revert to a less specialized state, losing their
stem-specific characteristics.
• This allows them to become pluripotent, capable of developing into different cell types,
including root cells.
• Root Primordium Formation: Root-competent cells begin to divide and differentiate,
forming a dome-shaped structure called a root primordium. This primordium contains all
the essential cell types for a functional root.
• Vascular Connection: The vascular system of the newly formed root connects with the
vascular system of the stem, ensuring the transport of water, nutrients, and hormones
between the root and the rest of the plant
4. The Role of Genetics:Inherent Rooting Potential
While environmental and hormonal factors play a significant role, the genetic makeup
of the plant also influences its rooting potential. Some plant species and cultivars are
naturally more prone to adventitious root formation than others. Understanding the
genetic basis of rooting ability is crucial for selecting suitable plant materials for
propagation.

c. Graft incompatibilty and stock scion

relationship.
Graft Incompatibility: When Stock and Scion Don't Get Along
Grafting, the art of joining two plants together, is a cornerstone of
horticulture. It allows us to combine the best traits of different plants,
creating new varieties with desirable characteristics. However, this
seemingly simple technique can be hampered by a phenomenon called graft
incompatibility
1. The Stock-Scion Relationship: A Delicate Balance
Grafting success hinges on the compatibility between the stock and scion. A compatible
graft union forms a strong bond, allowing for the seamless flow of water, nutrients, and
hormones between the two parts. This leads to a healthy, vigorous plant. However, when
the stock and scion are incompatible, the union can fail, leading to a range of problems,
from stunted growth to outright death.
2. Types of Incompatibility: A Spectrum of Challenges
Graft incompatibility can manifest in various ways, making diagnosis tricky:
• Translocated Incompatibility: This occurs early, often within the first year after grafting. It
involves the disruption of nutrient and hormone transport across the graft union, leading to
scion decline or death.
• Localized Incompatibility: This can take years to appear, often resulting in breakage at the
graft union. It's characterized by localized tissue breakdown and can be caused by
anatomical or physiological differences between the stock and scion.
• Virus-Induced Incompatibility: This arises when the stock and scion have different
sensitivities to a virus. A classic example is citrus tristeza virus, which causes severe
incompatibility in most scions grafted onto sour orange rootstock.
3. The Role of Genetics: A Matter of Compatibility
The genetic relationship between the stock and scion plays a crucial role in determining
compatibility. Closely related plants, often within the same species or genus, are more likely to
be compatible. However, even within closely related species, incompatibility can occur.
• Genetic Distance: The greater the genetic distance between the stock and scion, the more
likely incompatibility is. This is why grafting between different species or genera is often
challenging.
• Specific Gene Combinations: Even within the same species, certain gene combinations can
lead to incompatibility. This is why specific rootstock-scion combinations have been
developed and tested over time.
4. Beyond Genetics: Other Factors Influencing Compatibility
While genetics is a primary driver, other factors can also contribute to graft incompatibility:
• Environmental Stress: Factors like drought, extreme temperatures, or nutrient deficiencies
can weaken the graft union and increase the risk of incompatibility.
• Physiological Differences: Differences in growth rates, hormone production, or nutrient
uptake between the stock and scion can disrupt the balance of the graft union.
• Anatomical Differences: Differences in the structure of the vascular tissues (xylem and
phloem) can hinder the formation of a functional connection between the stock and scion.
5. Detecting Incompatibility: Early Diagnosis is Key Early
detection of incompatibility is crucial to prevent economic losses and ensure the success of grafting programs.
Here are some signs to watch for:

• Scion Swelling: An abnormal swelling above the graft union can indicate incompatibility.
• Rootstock Grooving: The rootstock may develop grooves or cracks near the graft union.
• Necrosis: Dead tissue may appear at or near the graft union.
• Stunted Growth: The scion may grow slowly or show signs of decline.
• Leaf Chlorosis: Yellowing of leaves can be a symptom of incompatibility.
6. Mitigating Incompatibility: Strategies for Success
While incompatibility can be a challenge, there are strategies to mitigate its effects:

• Careful Selection: Choose compatible stock-scion combinations based on known research and experience.
• Optimizing Environmental Conditions: Provide optimal growing conditions to minimize stress on the graft
union.
• Interstocks: Use an interstock, a third plant species grafted between the stock and scion, to bridge genetic
differences and improve compatibility.
• Improved Grafting Techniques: Use proper grafting techniques to ensure a tight, well-aligned union.
• Ongoing Research: Continue to research the mechanisms of incompatibility to develop new strategies for
improving graft success.
 GRAFTING:A METHOD OF VEGETATIVE
PROPAGATION
• Grafting is a widely used technique in horticulture and agriculture for propagating plants
asexually. It involves joining a portion of one plant, known as the scion, to the root system
of another plant, called the rootstock. This union allows the scion to grow and develop
using the established root system of the rootstock, resulting in a new plant that inherits the
desirable traits of the scion.
• ADVANTAGES OF GRAFTING
• Grafting offers several advantages over other methods of vegetative propagation:
PRESERVATION OF DESIRABLE TRAITS:
Desirable Traits: This method ensures that the new plant inherits the specific genetic
characteristics of the scion, including fruit quality, disease resistance, and growth habit.
IMPROVED ROOT SYSTEM
Grafting allows for the use of rootstocks with desirable characteristics, such as disease
resistance, vigor, or dwarfing properties.
VEGETATIVE PROPAGATIONOF DIFFICULT TO ROOT PLANTS:
Many plants, like fruit trees and certain ornamentals, are difficult to propagate from
cuttings. Grafting provides a viable alternative for their propagation.
VARIETY MODIFICATION:
Grafting allows for the modification of existing plants by changing the scion to a new
variety with superior traits, such as improved fruit quality or disease resistance.
REPAIR OR DAMAGED PLANTS:
Grafting techniques like inarching, approach grafting, or bridge grafting can be used to
repair damaged plants, restoring their growth and vigor.
TYPES OF GRAFTING TECHNIQUES
There are various grafting techniques, each suited to specific plant types, growth stages, and
desired outcomes.
WHIP AND TONGUE GRAFT
This technique is commonly used for seedlings or clonal rootstocks. Both the scion and
rootstock are cut at an angle, creating a tongue-like shape. The tongues interlock, ensuring a
tight fit and good contact between the cambium layers.
CLEFT GRAFT
This method is suitable for larger rootstocks with a diameter of at least 1 inch. A vertical split
is made in the rootstock, and a wedge-shaped scion is inserted into the split, ensuring
alignment of the cambium layers.
BARK GRAFT
This technique is used for rootstocks with a diameter greater than 2 inches. A flap of bark is
peeled back on the rootstock, and a scion with a flat cut is inserted underneath the flap. The
cambium layers must be in contact for successful union.
APPROCH GRAFT
This method involves joining two independently growing plants. The stems of both plants are
cut and brought into contact, allowing them to heal and merge together. This technique is
useful for repairing damaged plants or creating unique designs.
SIDE GRAFT
This technique involves inserting the scion into the side of the rootstock. It is often used for
bench grafting, where potted rootstocks are grafted during dormancy.
TIMING AND CONDITIONS FOR GRAFTING

The success of grafting depends on the timing and conditions:

SEASON
Grafting is typically performed during the dormant season, when the plant is not actively
growing. This reduces sap flow and allows for a better union between the scion and the
rootstock.
CAMBIUM LAYER
The cambium layer, located between the bark and wood, is responsible for growth. It is
crucial to align the cambium layers of the scion and rootstock for successful union.
TEMPARATURE
Ideal temperatures for grafting vary depending on the plant species, but generally range from
45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C) during dormancy.
POST GRAFTING CARE
After grafting, proper care is essential for successful union:
SECURING THR GRAFT
The scion and rootstock are secured together using grafting tape or other suitable materials
to maintain close contact and prevent movement.
MOISTURE
The grafted plant should be kept moist, especially during the healing process. This can be
achieved through regular watering or by using a humidity dome.
PROTECTION
The graft union should be protected from harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds or
extreme temperatures. [1]
Pruning: Once the graft has healed and started to grow, the rootstock above the graft union
should be pruned to encourage the scion's growth.
CONCLUSION
Grafting is a versatile and valuable technique for propagating plants with desirable traits,
offering advantages in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to manipulate
plant characteristics. Understanding the different grafting techniques, timing, and post-
grafting care is crucial for successful propagation. By mastering this method, horticulturists
and farmers can effectively multiply their desired plant varieties, ensuring the preservation
of valuable genetic characteristics and improving plant performance.
• Budding: A Method of Vegetative Propagation
Budding is a widely used technique in horticulture and agriculture for propagating plants asexually.
This method involves grafting a single bud from a desired plant, known as the scion, onto a rooted
plant, called the rootstock. This union allows the scion to grow and develop using the established
root system of the rootstock, resulting in a new plant that inherits the desirable traits of the scion .
Advantages of Budding
Budding offers several advantages over other methods of vegetative propagation:
Preservation of Desirable Traits:
This method ensures that the new plant inherits the specific genetic characteristics of the scion,
including fruit quality, disease resistance, and growth habit. Faster Propagation: Compared to
methods like grafting, budding is generally quicker and more efficient, requiring less time for the
scion to establish itself on the rootstock.
Economical: Budding requires less material and can be performed with a higher success rate,
making it a cost-effective method for propagating large numbers of plants.
Versatile: Budding can be applied to a wide range of plant species, including fruit trees, roses, and
grapevines.
Types of Budding Techniques
• There are several different budding techniques, each suited to specific plant types and growth conditions:
T-Budding/Shield Budding: This is the most common method, particularly for plants with thin bark. A T-
shaped incision is made on the rootstock, and a shield-shaped bud is removed from the scion and inserted
into the incision. The bud is then secured with grafting tape. This technique is widely used for fruit trees like
apple, pear, and peach, as well as roses.
Patch Budding: This technique is used for plants with thicker bark, such as mango, jackfruit, and aonla. A
square or rectangular bud is removed from the scion and placed into a similarly shaped incision on the
rootstock.
Chip Budding: This method is employed for plants with low sap flow and bark that doesn't easily separate
from the wood, such as apple, pear, and grape. A rectangular bud with a small piece of wood is removed
from the scion and inserted into a similar incision on the rootstock.
Ring Budding: This technique is suitable for plum, peach, and mulberry. A ring-shaped bud is removed from
the scion and placed onto a similar incision on the rootstock. This method does not require the use of
grafting tape.
Forkert Budding: This method is used for plants with thick bark, like mango, jackfruit, and cashew nut. A
rectangular bud is is removed from the scion and placed into a three-sided incision on the rootstock. The
bud is then covered with the remaining bark flap and secured with grafting tape.
• Timing and Conditions for Budding
The success of budding depends on the timing and conditions:
Season: Budding is typically performed during the growing season when sap flow is
active, allowing for better union between the scion and the rootstock.
Bark Condition: The bark should be pliable and easily separable from the wood,
allowing for the insertion of the bud.
Temperature: Ideal temperatures for budding range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
Post-Budding Care
After budding, it's crucial to provide proper care to ensure successful union:
Grafting Tape: The grafting tape should be left in place for several weeks to secure
the bud and promote healing.
Watering: The newly budded plant should be watered regularly to maintain soil
moisture.
 Sunlight: Provide adequate sunlight to encourage growth.
Pruning: Once the bud has healed and started to grow, prune the rootstock above
the bud to encourage the scion's growth.

• Conclusion
Budding is a valuable technique for propagating plants with desirable traits,
offering advantages in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and versatility.
Understanding the different types of budding techniques, timing, and post-budding
care is essential for successful propagation. By mastering this method,
horticulturists and farmers can effectively multiply their desired plant varieties,
ensuring the preservation of valuable genetic characteristics.