Vegetative propagation of <i>Afzelia africana</i> Sm. Ex Pers.: a multipurpose and threatened tree

Abstract

Afzelia africana is at the verge of extinction from continuous exploitation without replacement, thus propagation of this tree species is expedient. Vegetative propagation is a reliable means of propagation of tree species. This study therefore describes a protocol for the vegetative propagation of Afzelia africana by using stem cuttings from its mature tree (20 years old) and saplings (2 years old). Herbaceous (non - lignified portion of the stem) and semi – hard wood cuttings (lignified portion of the stem) (with and without leaves) were treated with high and low concentrations of Indole butyric acid (IBA) solution via the quick dip and the soaking method of application and planted on forest soil and river sand in a humidifier. Cuttings from mature tree planted on forest soil and river sand did not respond to any treatment. Also, no response was observed on cuttings collected from saplings and planted on forest soil; however, cuttings planted on river sand sprouted. The presence and absence of leaves and IBA treatment had an interaction effect on root number (0.02) and root length (0.0001). The response from herbaceous cuttings was significantly higher than from semi – hard wood cuttings with respect to root number (1.00) and root length (5.82 cm). Cutting type and IBA treatment also had an interaction effect on root number (0.05) and root length (0.0007). Herbaceous leafy stem cuttings of A. africana treated with 400 ppm IBA and planted on river sand is suitable for rooting stem cuttings of A. africana for raising seedlings for reforestation, afforestation and other conservation purposes.

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Keywords: Rooting, cuttings, Afzelia africana, hormone, humidifier