The potential of plant growth regulator (auxin) in enhancing fruit crop propagation via Stem Cuttings

Abstract

Vegetative propagation via stem cuttings is a widely used technique in horticulture, particularly for clonal multiplication of fruit crops. The utilization of auxins such as naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) as plant growth regulators has shown great promise in improving the rooting capacity and general quality of stem cuttings. Auxins are essential for initiating and fostering adventitious root production, elongating and accelerating cell division, and controlling the patterning of the root meristem. Numerous studies across various fruit crops, including pomegranate, mulberry, fig, and dragon fruit, have reported improved rooting percentages, increased root quality parameters (root number, length, biomass), and enhanced shoot development when auxins are applied exogenously to stem cuttings. The physiological mechanisms behind auxin-induced rooting involve auxin biosynthesis, polar auxin transport, and downstream signaling cascades involving auxin-responsive genes and regulatory pathways. Optimizing auxin concentrations and application methods is critical for maximizing rooting success, as species-specific responses have been observed. The integration of auxin treatments with other propagation techniques can further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of clonal propagation methods for fruit crops. Ultimately, the strategic use of auxins represents a promising and economically viable approach to improving the propagation of fruit crops through stem cuttings, contributing to sustainable and efficient horticultural practices.