Effect of preplanting root exposure on survival and establishment of Khair (Acacia catechu Willd.) seedlings

Abstract

Acacia catechu Willd. seedlings were planted with intact soil, subjected to 0 hr, 6 hrs, 12 hrs and 24 hrs root exposure durations. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with four replications. The observations were recorded upto six months on different morphological, physiological and nutritional characters. With increase in length of preplanting root exposure, many morphological, physiological parameters, nutrient content and their uptake were affected which reduced the survival per cent. However, root exposed up to 6 hours duration performed better as far as growth rate is concerned which suggests that up to 6 hours duration bare root planting can be done without hampering growth in transplants. Survival per cent was higher in monsoon than winter planting. Therefore gap filling may be done during winter season.