Standardization of Grafting Techniques for Neoza Pine (Pinus gerardiana Wall.)

Abstract

Out of the six Himalayan conifer species found in India, Pinus gerardiana Wall. Commonly known as Chilgoza or Neoaza pine is prized for its edible and highly nutritious nuts. Since the species is restricted to small patches in the Indian Himalayas and is also facing biotic interferences leading to nearly lack of natural regeneration thus listed as an endangered species in the Red Data Book. Like other conifers. Pinus gerardiana too is difficult to regenerate through vegetative means. Standardization of grafting technique was undertaken with the objective to provide plenty of improved planting material for both establishment of clonal seed orchard and also for plantation purposes. After various grafting experiments, a success of more than 70 per cent has been achieved. The details of the developed grafting technology have been discussed in details.