Influence of diameter on basal cuttings for vegetative propagation of pomegranate (Punica granatum) under nursery conditions

Abstract

Context. Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is considered a promising fruit for its nutritional value and medicinal attributes. In Colombia, interest is recently perceived in this species, so there is a growing demand in obtaining planting material. However, there are no adequate propagation schemes, which limits the planting potential in this country. Objective. To evaluate the effect of the diameter of the pomegranate basal cuttings sown in different environments on the percentage of survival to establish a preliminary vegetative propagation methodology for this specie under nursery conditions. Methods. 405 pomegranate cuttings cv. Mina Shirin were collected, classified in three categories according to their diameter in thin, medium and thick, which were evaluated in three different environments (100 % sun exposure, 50 % sun exposure and humid chamber with 10 % sun exposure) for a total of nine treatments, each with three repetitions of 15 cuttings. Results. Significant differences were found regarding the type of cutting, because those who presented diameters greater than 1.2 cm showed greater potential for vegetative propagation of pomegranate. Regarding the environments evaluated, there were also significant differences, the best of which was the humid chamber, where a survival rate of 40.74 % was found. Conclusions. The establishment of an efficient pomegranate vegetative propagation methodology with quality attributes is projected soon, using basal cuttings with diameters greater than 1.2 cm.

Keywords

• propagation material
• mina shirin
• survival rate
• quality propagules