The Propagation of Guavas from Stem Cuttings

Abstract

1. A highly successful propagation method is described by which hundreds of side-sprouts are first induced on the parent guava tree. These are later cut and rooted under alternatmg mist, with leaves attached. By using this method it is possible to produce from 500 to 1,000 guava plants from a single 3-year-old tree within 10 months. 2. An experiment is also described and discussed which showed that different rooting media, such as coarse sand and very fine gravel, with Coco-peat, fir bark, Vermiculite, Perlite, and Mexifern, had no appreciable effect on rooting. But treatment with a relatively high concentration, 200 p.p.m., of indolebutyric acid improved and accelerated rooting markedly. Rooting was still further improved if 2 percent of sugar was combined with the indolebutyric acid treatment. 3. The high susceptibility of cuttings under mist to anthracnose disease is mentioned and the usual course of the disease described. Recommendations are suggested for reducing the incidence of this disease.