Standardization of propagation techniques in sapota [Manilkara achras (Mill.) Fosberg] under north Indian conditions

Abstract

This experiment was carried out at Punjab Agricultural University, Regional Fruit Research Station, Bahadurgarh in district Patiala, Punjab during the years 2013–14 and 2014–15 with the objectives to standardize propagation techniques and time of propagation in sapodilla under north Indian conditions. In this experiment, different propagation techniques used were side grafting, veneer grafting and wedge grafting in the months of February, March, July and August. The highest average graft survival (68.7%) was recorded in side grafting followed by veneer grafting. The success rate during different months of grafting ranged from 51.7 to 62.8%. The maximum graft survival (62.8%) was recorded in the month of July. In all treatments, minimum average survival (51.7%) was recorded in the month of February. The earliest bud stick sprouting was recorded in side grafting. The maximum number of days (15.4) required for sprouting of buds was recorded in veneer grafting followed by wedge grafting i. e. 14.9 days. The average graft girth during different months ranged from 5.6 to 6.2 mm. The graft girth did not differ significantly in February and March, whereas the graft girth differed significantly in March as compared to July and August. The maximum graft height was recorded in side grafting which may be due to early sprouting of the bud stick; however, maximum graft height (56.1 cm) was recorded in the month of March.