Growth Response of Bago (Gnetum gnemon) Cuttings to Various Rooting Agents

Domestication of forest-based floral resources like Gnetum gnemon, with young leaves and immature flowers are popularly eaten, promote ex-situ conservation of the species. G. gnemon is an excellent source of Vitamins A and C. However, the species remain largely forest-based and unresponsive to natural cutting propagation. The seeds remain dormant for 5 months to 1 year. This study determined the growth response of bago cuttings soaked for an hour in the following rooting agents: ANAA (1 tbsp/li of water); IBA (500 ppm); pure coconut water and plain tap water. Results showed T-2 (ANAA) and T4 seedlings (control) had the highest survival of 75% and 67% respectively. On leaf production, T4 (control) was significantly higher than the other treatments. Treatment 1 (IBA) produced the highest average number of roots. The study concluded that bago or Gnetum gnemon can be successfully propagated through cuttings with the use of rooting enhancers. However, care should be taken in the selection of the cuttings. Highest survival was observed with the greenish cuttings containing only a few brownish pigmentation and containing two nodes. Mortality was higher in the more mature or too young cuttings and those with one node only.

 

Keywords - Growth, Gnetum gnenom, Rooting agents, Cuttings