Using putrescine to increase the rooting ability of hardwood cuttings of the peach × almond hybrid GF677

Abstract

Abstract GF677 is an interspecific hybrid which has important value in terms of economic and horticultural characteristics. The use of this rootstock for some stone fruit trees including almond and peach has been increased dramatically in recent years. It has some useful characteristics i.e. high tolerance to calcareous soil, a strong root system and suitability for poor soils, but its propagation is difficult. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of putrescine (PUT) on the rooting of GF677 cuttings under mist conditions. Treatments used include PUT concentrations (2 and 4 mM for 5 minutes), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) using the quickdip method (1500 and 3000 mg l-1 for five seconds), and a commercial rooting powder and control (without any rooting substances). Treatments were applied at the end of the dormant season. Growth data were obtained 120 days after the treatments. The results showed that application of 1500 mg l-1 of IBA and commercial rooting powder improved GF677 rooting, but 3000 mg l-1 of IBA resulted in toxic effects on rooting and foliage of the cuttings. Cuttings treated with PUT solutions showed the best roots and shoots in terms of the number and quality. In conclusion, IBA may be replaced by PUT in the rooting process of GF677 cuttings.