Root-growth stimulants improve mum cuttings

Immersing chrysanthemum cuttings for several minutes in low-concentration solutions of root-growth stimulant not only initiates better rooting, but is simpler, less costly and easier on the environment than using high-concentration solutions, according to Theo Blom, professor at the University of Guelph’s Department of Plant Agriculture.

Dipping the bottom 1 to 2 centimeters of cuttings results in a poor and shallow root system after planting, said graduate student Hussain Ahmad. Ahmad dipped the bottom 3-4 centimeters of cutting tips to compare varying dip periods using the rooting stimulant indole-3-butyric acid (IBA).

The research team found applying the stimulant in a “long-dip” method encouraged better root growth. Cuttings were completely immersed in a low-concentration solution (about 100 parts per million) for three minutes and kept wet overnight. Once these treated cuttings were planted, they grew roots up to 4 centimeters farther up the stem, which anchored the plant more firmly in the growing medium, Ahmad said.

{sidebar id=1}

For more: Theo Blom, University of Guelph, Department of Plant Agriculture, 50 Stone Road West, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1; (519) 824-4120, Ext. 53847; tblom@uoguelph.ca.