STANDARDIZATION OF MACROPROPAGATION TECHNIQUE FOR DALBERGIA LATIFOLIA ROXB. THROUGH ROOT CUTTINGS, ITS APPLICATION IN PRODUCTION OF QUALITY PLANTING STOCK AND CONSERVATION OF GENETIC RESOURCES

Abstract

The Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia Roxb.), is one of the precious timber tree species 
categorized as “Vulnerable” in the Red Data Book of IUCN. The fast depletion of its valuable 
genetic resources due to over-exploitation and low regeneration has been a matter of great 
concern. In this context, a study on the macropropagation of this species through root cuttings 
was undertaken. The root cuttings of D. latifolia were maintained in polytunnel condition to 
produce the sprouts which were used for rooting. The effect of sprout lengths (5 – 10 cm, 11 – 15 
cm and 16 – 20 cm), IBA forms (powder and liquid) and IBA concentrations (2000 ppm and 
4000 ppm) on the rooting of sprouts as well as suitability of different rooting media were 
investigated. The results showed that IBA form and its concentration have significant impact on 
rooting. But, sprout lengths did not significantly influence the rooting. The liquid form of IBA at
2000 ppm concentration resulted in highest rooting (65-70%) compared to powder form and 
higher IBA concentration. The water and vermiculite were found to be the best rooting media
compared to sand, red soil, coir pith and vermicompost. Initial rooting using water medium and 
further transplanting to vermiculite (water + vermiculite medium method) resulted in better 
rooting of sprouts. The study revealed that the right IBA form, its optimum concentration and 
appropriate rooting media play a crucial role in successful macropropagation, which could be 
useful for the production of quality planting stock and conservation of genetic resources of this 
threatened species.