Influence of methods of budding of Khasi Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) performed on different types of rootstock

Abstract

Khasi Mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco.) is a commercially important mandarin fruit of Northeast India, known for its unique flavour, juiciness, and high market demand. The present study was conducted to assess the performance of Khasi Mandarin on different rootstocks under foothills areas of Arunachal Pradesh. T-budding and Modified Chip budding were performed, and key growth parameters were monitored up to 90 days after budding. Maximum bud take success of 73.33% and budding success of 68.89% were recorded in Modified Chip budding on Rough lemon. The results showed a notable increase in sprout length (10.27 cm), girth (1.76 mm), number of leaves on sprout (7.43), leaf area (14.97 cm2), total chlorophyll content (0.82 mg/g) and total carotenoid content (0.17 mg/100 g). The success of budding was attributed to rapid vascular connection, efficient nutrient translocation, and favourable environmental conditions. The findings suggested that Rough Lemon served as a suitable rootstock for the propagation of Khasi Mandarin with Modified Chip budding, supporting large-scale multiplication and improved orchard establishment in the region.