ROOTING RESPONSE OF BRANCH CUTTINGS OF TWO PROMISING SACRED FICUS TREE SPECIES OF THE TROPICS

Abstract

Rooting response of stem cuttings of two Ficus species, namely F. bengalensis and F. religiosa, was investigated during different seasons of a year in the presence and absence of auxin treatment. Both species showed poor rooting potential without auxin treatment, but a better response when treated with auxins. A correlation was seen between their active photosynthetic period and rooting capacity. A marked seasonal variation in their rooting behaviour was also observed.