Resource Book on Horticulture Nursery Management

from the trees. Cuttings taken from such plants, root better as compared to untreated
plants.
5. Lanoline Paste Method
As described earlier, IBA is applied to the girdled portion of a layer or stool it is
applied in lanoline paste for inducing rooting in plants. Honeybee wax may also be
used in place of Lanoline.
Preparation of PGR Solution
1. Plant Growth Regulator Powder
For preparing hormonal powders, the required quantities of the hormone are
weighed precisely on electronic balance and dissolved at the rate of 1 gm in 100 ml of
acetone in a beaker. This material is poured into one kilogram of talc powder taken in
mortar and mixed thoroughly with a glass rod. After mixing, the mixture is kept open in
air for few hours. The alcohol evaporates. The dried talc is then ground to fine powder.
This fine powder should be kept in airtight container and can be used for treating cuttings
as and when required.
2. PGR Solution
For the preparation of hormonal solution, the required quantity of the hormone is
measured and weighed accurately on electronic balance. It is then dissolved in a small
quantity of acetone or alcohol. When the contents are fully dissolved, the final volume is
made with distilled water. The pH of the solution should be nearly neutral. If the pH of
the solution is higher or lower, it may not induce rooting; rather it would affect the
rooting process adversely. The pH of the solution can be adjusted with the help of 0.1 N
HCL or 0.1 N KOH. Citric acid, humic acid may also be used for lowering the pH of an
alkaline solution. Hormonal solution should preferably be prepared fresh to avoid the
solution becoming inactive. The cans of solution, however, can be stored in a cool, dry
and dark place.
3. PGR Pastes
For preparing hormonal pastes, the required quantities of hormone are measured and
weighed accurately and dissolved completely in small quantity of alcohol. The required
quantity of the lanolin (greenish-yellow colored grease like substance) is also weighed
and heated slightly in a beaker under gentle flame. When, the lanolin slightly liquefies,
the dissolved hormone is poured in it. The contents are mixed thoroughly with constant
stirring with a glass rod. The contents are then allowed to cool down. The paste is thus
ready for use. Until use, the paste may be kept in a cool, dry and dry place.
Precautions
The use of root promoting hormone for the induction of rooting in the cuttings and
layers has now become the backbone of the nurserymen. These are readily available in
the market in various forms but it is always better to prepare them at nursery site itself.
The hormones not only induce rooting but also help in growth and development of the
roots. Indole butyric acid (IBA) and Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) are most effective in
cuttings and layers and these are used in tissue culture media also. To have better and
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