Field growth performances of teak genotypes of different ages clonally produced by rooted cuttings, in vitro microcuttings, and meristem culture

Abstract

Teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) clonal forestry has lately become a reality thanks to the development of efficient techniques for mass clonally propagating true-to-type teak trees of various ages. Field trials were set up to assess the influence of teak genotypes of different ages and three clonal propagation techniques on field growth performances of teak clones. Significant differences (P < 0.0001) in height (H, from 11.9 to 17.5 m), diameter at breast height (D, from 11.8 to 18.9 cm), and volume (V, from 67.9 to 194.7 dm3) were observed 5 years after planting for clones produced by microcuttings from 6-month-old to 70-year-old teak ortets, regardless of their age. After 6.5 years of testing, H, D, and V performances of clones produced by rooted cuttings and microcuttings from 7-year-old teak trees were similar, notwithstanding clone × propagation method interactions. Five years after planting, clones produced by meristem culture from 7-year-old ortets had larger diameters and volumes than clones produced by microcuttings, whereas H varied according to clone × propagation method interaction. The various propagation methods used had no significant effect on mortality (<10%). The pros and cons of these techniques for mass clonally propagating teak genotypes of different ages were discussed.