Improved Clonal Propagation Technique for Mass Multiplication of Bixa orellana, L.

Clonal propagation is one of the most effective tools for improvement in forestry. The study describes the scope and development of clonal propagation technology for Bixa orellana commonly known as Annatto. Developing rapid and improved clonal study reveals that clonal prorogation is possible through stem cuttings collected from matured trees. The study standardized the effect of cutting size, concentration of IBA and ischolar_main media on success and survival of stem cuttings in this species. Percentage ischolar_maining and primary ischolar_main number differed significantly between treated and untreated cuttings. Treatment of cuttings with 4000 ppm IBA maximized ischolar_maining (83.30%), along with increased survival (78.30%) and primary ischolar_main number (20.20). Rooting success and ischolar_main number were better in 15 cm x 20 mm diameter sized cuttings. Cuttings planted in sand: soil (1:1) ischolar_mained better with more ischolar_mains ensuring better survival. Survival and growth of the clonal plants were best when using improved techniques like size of the cuttings with proper concentration of IBA and also combined with suitable ischolar_maining media. However, there was significant variation in height growth (shoots sprouts length) of cuttings due to IBA treatments. The results suggested that it could be possible to produce clones of high yielding superior genotypes of Bixa orellana on large scale through stem cutting for popularization and establishment of commercial forestry and agroforestry plantations.