Roots as a Substrate in Layering in Lychee

Abstract

The research was carried out with the objective of evaluating the effect of different substrates based on grass roots, on air layering in lychee plants. The grass seedlings were planted in plastic pots with a capacity of 10 liters with a mixture of soil, sand and barnyard manure (3:1:1). The treatments were composed of Esfagno as a control and forage roots: Tifton, Jiggs, Mombaça and Tanzânia. Ninety days after planting, their roots were removed and placed to dry for later use in layering. After drying the roots, batches weighing 30 grams were made for all species and batches were separated for layering. Air layering was performed on adult lychee plants, in branches between 1 and 2 cm in diameter, with each treatment of five layering. Five plants of each treatment were collected for evaluation. The setting index, green mass and dry mass of the roots were evaluated. Grass roots can be used as a substitute for Esfagno in air layering in lychee trees. The substrates formed by roots of Mombaça and Tanzânia grass showed the best results in replacement of Esfagno in air layering in lychee trees and may be a solution for use in the production of seedlings of this fruit tree.