Jatropha plantations are usually established via plants propagated by seeds (seedlings).
Advantages of this propagation method are:
- Propagation at higher quantities is possible
- Transportation of propagation material to target areas is easy
- Plants develop a tap root, which creates a better and more resistant root system.
Nevertheless, cuttings should be considered for the propagation of Jatropha plants for the following reasons:
- Plants have exactly the same genetic disposition as the mother plant (e.g. high yielding plants can be reproduced in one field).
- Early maturation time; inflorescence and fruit building starts the same year as planting (seedlings start inflorescence and fruit building the second year after planting).
Both propagation methods have arguments for application in Jatropha plantations. Hence, a comparison of plant development has to be explored in order to find out in which context each method is most suitable.
In May 2006, LIRE planted both cuttings and seedlings at a test plantation at the same time. After the 2007/2008 dry season, the first differences were observed. Plants propagated with seedlings started growing sooner after the dormancy period than plants propagated with cuttings. However, after some weeks, differences disappeared.
In May 2008, Nana-Sounaly Somany, one of LIRE’s staff team, carried out some observations. She screened a selection of plants for growth, ramification, seed yield, etc. and will further observe the root system of some sample plants. Some interesting observations were made and the screening will carry on in the coming months. Results are expected to be presented in November 2008.
