Effect of cutting storage conditions during planting operations on the survival and biomass production of four willow (Salix L.) clones
2004
Volk, T.A. | Woods Ballard, B (Bridget) | Robison, D.J. | Abrahamson, L.P.
Planting vigorous cuttings that quickly develop shoots and roots is essential to the biological and economic success of willow biomass crops. Current recommendations are that cuttings should be planted within 2-4 days of being removed from long-term cold storage at -4°C. However, maintaining this short time period is not always feasible. Results from greenhouse and field experiments indicated that leaving cuttings out of -4°C long-term cold storage for up to 12 days before planting did not have a significant impact on survival or biomass production. For cuttings removed from long-term cold storage 23 days before planting, survival and per tree biomass production were lower for three of the four clones tested in a field trial. Returning cuttings to a -20°C freezer 5-9 days after removal from -4°C long-term cold storage, reduced the proportion of cuttings that developed roots or shoots, and shoot biomass of all clones. However, returning cuttings to either a +2°C cooler or a -4°C freezer had no effect on shoot biomass after 3 weeks of growth. Returning cuttings to supplemental cold storage at +2 to -4°C may extend the time that cutting viability can be maintained after being removed from long-term cold storage and thawed. Returning cuttings to a -20°C freezer for supplemental storage is not recommended.
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