Epicotyl grafting in mango (<i>Mangifera indica</i> L.) as influenced by length of scion, scion type and rootstock

Abstract

The increased demand for high quality mango in Nigeria requires for provision of qualitative fruits with superior characters. This could be achieved by grafting of cultivars with the desired qualities onto and adapted and available rootstocks. In view of addressing the demand deficit, two trials were conducted in 2015 rainy season at the Kano Institute of Horticulture screen house, Bagauda to study the influence of scion length, scion type and root-stock on epicotyl grafting in mango. Treatments consisted of scion lengths (6, 8 and 10 cm), scion types (Alphonso, Julie and Mabrouka) and local rootstocks (Dankamaru and Gwaiwarrago). These were factorially combined and laid in a completely randomized design with three replicates. Results of the study revealed that grafting was most successful in 8 and 10cm scions and these produced more leaves and longest grafted saplings. Alphonso and Gwaiwarrago were most compatible as they recorded the highest graft success. Experiments involving many scions and rootstocks is recommended to determine suitable combination of scion and rootstock for successful epicotyl grafting in mango.

Keywords: Cleft, scion, rootstock, veneer