Bud characteristics of unrooted stem cuttings affect establishment success of cottonwood.

Abstract

Experimental plantings of different genotypes of cottonwood were examined. The four clones tested were: a Populus hybrid (Dula, D-01), a P. trichocarpa x P. deltoides hybrid (Hybrid 11), and two native P. trichocarpa clones (Nisqually 1 and Orting 5). Establishment success and characteristics of hardwood cuttings or resulting plants that might be related to success were determined. Establishment success varied significantly (P < 0.01) among the four clones in the order, orting = dula > Hybrid 11 > Nisqually. Also, there was much variation among the clones in the relative proportion of inter-nodal shoots, dead buds, and "spent" buds. Results suggest that best establishment and growth are achieved when cuttings have healthy axillary buds at planting. Establishment success from such cuttings would be fairly high, and resulting experimental plantings would permit valid comparisons of productivity of different genotypes of cottonwood.

Citation

Radwan, M.A.; Kraft, J.M.; DeBell, D.S. 1987. Bud characteristics of unrooted stem cuttings affect establishment success of cottonwood. Res. Note PNW-RN-461. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 8 p