BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT

(2031 254-4000

SUMMARY REPORT

THE USE OF A NATURAL BIOSTIMULANT (ROOTS®) IN THE PROPAGATION

Dr. Raymond P. Poincelot

Fairfield University, Fairfield, Connecticut

ABSTRACT

A commercial extract of humic acids, kelp extracts and a proprietary metabolite (ROOTS®) was tested as a biostimulant for propagation. Cuttings tested included the following succulents: Pedilanthus tithymaloides cucullatus, Senecio deflersii , and an unknown stapeliad species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A one percent solution was utilized for experimentation, based upon two criteria. Studies at the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies by G. Berlyn and R. Russo showed that the optimal concentration for growth with Loblolly pine was one percent (private communication, 1989). A preliminary test of a one percent solution on stapeliad cuttings showed substantial root growth differences over controls.

Experiments were conducted in the greenhouse at Fairfield University during the late winter and early spring of 1989. Cuttings were dipped in a one percent solution of ROOTS for 15 seconds. Then they were air—dried until callused, usually 24 to 48 hours. Next they were inserted in sand for rooting. Controls were dipped in distilled water. No auxin-based rooting hormones were used. A once a week watering with a one percent solution of ROOTS® was used to keep the sand moist. If watering was needed in between, regular water was used. Only water was used with the controls.