Iba induced rooting characteristics in coral bush: evaluation using svi concept

Rooting ability in IBA induced rooting experiments largely depends on the medium used for rooting this has been established using SVI (sprouting value index), which, is a mathematical approach. Coral bush, Ardesia littoralisis a medicinal and avenue plant species of India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Malesia. Field studies were carried out using three rooting medium at a location in Central Kerala, Peninsular India, for three times at four months regular interval. Three IBA (Indole3-butyric acid) concentrations 100 ppm, 200 ppm and 500 ppm IBA, have been used and the data obtained was evaluated with SVI (sprouting value index) method in order to evaluate the suitable medium, which gives maximum results. The control cuttings do not recorded rooting. The results obtained indicate high SVI (sprouting value index), when stem root cuttings planted in root trainers with coir pith compost (RTCP) for all the three concentration of IBA applied. Sprouting percentage was increased and the delay in completion of sprouting/rooting initiation decreased by the use of IBA treatment.