RESCUE TECHNIQUES AND VEGETATIVE PROPAGATION OF Eucalyptus benthamii Maiden & Cambage
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: The Eucalyptus genus is globally important for wood and non-wood product supply due to its fast growth, high productivity, and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Eucalyptus benthamii is notably cultivated in subtropical regions, such as southern Brazil, due to its frost tolerance. However, the species exhibits low efficiency in adventitious rooting when propagated through clonal techniques. This study aimed to assess two vegetative rescue techniques for E. benthamii and evaluate the effect of indolebutyric acid (IBA) on cutting rooting and plantlet development.
Results: The first trial was conducted in the field using a 2x3 factorial design to compare two stump heights (15 cm and 90 cm) and three collection intervals. The number of shoots and total cuttings were analyzed across three shoot height classes. The 15 cm stump technique, especially in the second collection (111 days after rescue), produced the highest number of shoots (73.7 shoots stump-1). The second trial, carried out in a nursery, assessed rooting responses to IBA concentrations (0, 1500, 3000, and 4500 mg L-1) in cuttings derived from both rescue techniques. IBA application significantly improved cutting survival, rooting rate, and root development.
Conclusion: The stump at 15 cm technique was the most effective for shoot and cutting production in the field. Furthermore, an IBA concentration of 2800 mg L-1 is recommended for promoting adventitious rooting and producing high-quality E. benthamii plantlets.
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