Abstract
A method is described for the production of uniform batches of rooted tip cuttings suitable for use in nutritional studies. Use of root promoting hormones has been found unnecessary. Acid-washed, black polyethylene beads moistened with a dilute solution of a calcium salt (150 ?M) were found to provide a low-nutrient environment in which healthy root development can occur. The optimum bed temperature for the cultivars studied was in the range 25° to 30°C. Heavy shading of the propagation beds (about 80 per cent light reduction) caused substantial reductions in root growth. However, light shading (about 30 per cent light reduction) for the first two or three days of the propagation period reduces initial wilting in some cultivars and may assist in their establishment.
