Posted by agri_center | Posted in Business Opportunities, Flowers, Home and Garden/Landscaping, Ornamentals and Cut Foliage, Tips and Techniques | Posted on 17-02-2009
Tags: Dona Eva Mussaenda, Mussaenda cleft grafting, Mussaenda Philippines, Philippine Mussaenda, Propagation of Mussaenda
Description:
`Doña Eva` is one of the most expensive Mussaendas because it is the most difficult to root by stem cuttings. Cleft grafting is the most effective method. The technique involves: a) selection of scion, the brown stem with actively growing green or red shoots; b) use of appropriate age of scion from `Dona Eva`, and the appropriate or compatible rootstock, either `Dona Luz` or `Dona Aurora` or `Baby Aurora`; c) preparation of scion and rootstock; and d) grafting. It is best done from January to April when the plant is dormant. The grafted plants will flower after ten weeks. Cleft grafting may also be done in July-August, three days after pinching or removing the two pairs of young leaves from the scion. The grafted plant will flower after eight months. The stem cuttings of this cultivar would root after 3-4 weeks when using a rooting hormone. However, there is a possibility of 50% mortality, 5-7 days after transplanting, and after 3-5 months, only 2% of the plants may survive.
Application of the Technology:
1)Using cleft grafting results in 83-100% survival in 4-6 weeks, provided the appropriate scion and compatible rootstock are used.
2)Makes it possible for `Doña Eva` to be propagated in large numbers and to be positioned in the market as potted `Christmas plant`.
Possible Areas of Technology Application:
Doña Evas are adaptable to any environmental situation. Thus, they can be grown in all areas in the Philippines.
Market:
`Doña Eva` growers
Agency In-charge:
Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development
Source: www.osist.dost.gov.ph
Photo Source: www.bar.gov.ph