Studies on rooting pattern of different varieties of mango grafted on Amrapali in the gangetic alluvium soil of West Bengal.
Hasan M. A., Suresh C. P., Mandal K. K.
Author Affiliation: Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Faculty of Horticulture, Department of Fruits and Orchard Management, P.O. Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia West Bengal, Pin - 741 252, India.
Orissa Journal of Horticulture 35 : 76-80
Abstract : This study investigated the rooting pattern of different mango cultivars (Himsagar, Alphonso, Langra, Bombay and Amrapali) grafted on the seedling rootstock of Amrapali. Results showed considerable variation among cultivars in the intensity and distribution of roots. Intensive rooting along with highest root dry matter production was recorded in Alphonso, followed by Amrapali, Langra, Bombay and Himsagar. Compared to other cultivars, Himsagar failed to develop and produce profuse root system on Amrapali stock. In all the cultivars, feeder roots (3 mm diameter) were confined mostly within HI horizon (0-20 cm) of upper soil surface (0-20 cm). It was also interesting to note that Alphonso produced maximum root dry matter and extended vertically to a depth of 20-40 cm, indicating deep root system upon grafting on Amrapali. In constrast, the very poor root system and root dry matter production in Himsagar indicated its unsuitability as graft partner with Amrapali stock. Thus, it appears from the results that feeder roots extend within 20 cm from the tree base and a very minute proportion of feeder roots extend beyond H1 horizon (0-20 cm) and D1 soil depth (020 cm). It is concluded that the feeder roots in young mango plants are mostly concentrated on the upper soil surface.