Vegetative propogation of rimu ( Dacrydium cupressinum ) with cuttings from nursery plants

Authors: A.J. Dakin
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1974, Issue N.Z.J.For. 19(2) 1974, pp 276-285, Aug 1974
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Nursery propagation of rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum) in New Zealand is often complicated by poor availability and quality of seed. This is due mainly to marked periodicity in fruiting and to variation in the amount of viable seed produced in any one year. This paper describes two trials in which cuttings from three-year-old nursery plants were given various treatments, including wounding and root hormone preparations, in an attempt to assist production of adventitious roots. Trial results show that rimu can be propagated successfully from terminal cuttings, set in a scoria/sand/peat medium, and rooted under mist. Speed of rooting and number of roots formed were improved by hormone powder treatments and, of the various strength powders used, Seradix 3 gave the best results. Cuttings set in November showed superiority in rooting over cuttings set in January. Wounding of the cutting base did not increase root production in cuttings set in November, but appeared to be beneficial for January set cuttings.

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