Propagation of Shumaka~(TM) crape myrtle

摘要

Shumaka crape myrtle is a hybrid resulting from the cross of Lagerstroemia 'Arapaho' and an unknown pollen donor. Industry recommendations are needed for propagating this new Mississippi State University crape myrtle selection. Hence, the objective ofthis research was to determine optimal commercial auxin formulation and concentration, with and without basal wounding, for hardwood cuttings of Shumaka. Hardwood cuttings quick-dipped in Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts (Hortus IBA) at 5000 ppm had higher root quality ratings compared to cuttings that were wounded and received noauxin. However, cuttings quick-dipped in Hortus IBA did have better root quality compared to cuttings treated with Dip'N Grow (DNG); root quality and number increased with increasing concentrations of Hortus IBA. Cutting quality (rooted, transplant-readycuttings) also increased when Hortus IBA concentrations increased. Results suggest that hardwood cuttings of Shumaka crape myrtle will root without wounding or use of auxin. However, a basal quick-dip in Hortus IBA 5000 ppm results in a higher quality liner.