Shallot extract enhance root growth in crystal guava (Psidium guajava) stem cuttings

Abstract

The most efficient and effective propagation of guava plants is by using stem cuttings. The main obstacle in the multiplication of guava with stem cuttings is the root system. Plant Growth Regulators are needed to accelerate and increase the roots of guava stem cuttings to obtain quality seeds. Plant growth regulators that can be used to accelerate guava growth include Indole Butyric Acid, Naphtalene Acetic Acid. However, both growth regulators are not available at the farm level. One alternative material that can increase the growth of guava cuttings is shallot extract. Information is needed to find out what is the right concentration of shallot extract to get guava seedlings with high growth percentage and quality. The purpose of this study was to determine the exact concentration of shallot extract on the growth of guava root cuttings. The research method used was a single factor experimental which was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design. The treatments tested were without plant growth regulators (as a control), fresh shallot extract concentration of 1%, maceration of shallot extract concentrations of 1%, 2%, and 3%, IBA with a concentration of 500 ppm (as a comparison). Guava stem cuttings before planting are soaked in the treatment solution for 120 minutes. During seedling growth, observations of roots, stems and leaves are observed. Observation data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Duncan Multiple Range Test. The results showed that the concentration of maceration of shallot extract 2% was able to grow roots and shoots with the same quality as IBA concentration of 500 ppm on crystal stem guava stem cuttings.