Propagation studies in nutmeg

Abstract

The studies on the propagation of nutmeg (MYRISTICA fragrans Houtt) were carried out at the Instructional Farm of the College of Horticulture, and at the District Agricultural Farm, Mannuthy during the period from April 1978 to July 1979. The studies consisted of two methods - namely, the seed propagation and vegetative propagation. The seed propagation studies included viability studies and the effect of growth regulators on germination and the subsequent growth of the seedlings. Under vegetative propagation, the main objective was to standardise an economical and effective method of vegetative propagation of nutmeg. The studies revealed that maximum per cent and quicker germination was obtained by sowing the seeds during the month of June and there was significant difference between the heavy and light group of seeds. Seeds stored in moist sand remained viable for a longer period than those stored in metalic containers. Gibberllic acid treatment had significant effect on the germination of seeds and the subsequent growth of the seedlings. Seeds treated with 200 ppm GA for 24 hours gave good results as compared to other treatments. Among the different methods of vegetative propagation tried, inarch grafting gave the highest per cent of sucess - about 95 per cent during the month of June. The growth of the grafts was poor when compared to the seedlings of same age during the initial stages, but the growth was progressive and satisfactory after two months (of seperation). Other methods of vegetative propagation viz., side-grafting, veneer grafting and wedge grafting were also successful up to 40 per cent, but the growth of the grafts was less than that of the seedlings. However, these methods need standardisation for use on a large scale programme of propagation of nutmeg.