ROOTING RESPONSE OF MAGIC FRUIT (Synsepalum Dulcificum Daniell) STEM CUTTINGS TO APPLICATION OF INDOLE-3 BUTYRIC ACID

Abstract

Magic fruit can be asexually propagated through hardwood and softwood cuttings using different root-initiating substances. Due to its high economic value in the medical and food industry, propagation study of this species is necessary to supply large number of planting materials. This study examined the rooting response of different types of cuttings (softwood and hardwood) magic fruit cuttings to application of different levels of indole-3 butyric acid (0, 200, 400, 600, 800 and 1000 ppm of IBA solution). Results of the study showed that increasing rates of IBA from 200 to 800 ppm promoted higher percentage rooting on both types of cuttings, but 800 ppm of IBA produced the highest percentage of 81.67%. While softwood cuttings responded favorably to application of IBA in terms on the number of days to emergence of new leaves and number of roots developed in magic fruit cuttings. Development of new leaves was shortened to 18-25 days, while in hardwood cuttings it was delayed to 30.10 days after planting. Based on the result, the optimum  level of IBA was 800 ppm and hence recommended for rooting of magic fruit through stem cuttings.