The Effect of Sample Date and Timing on the Propagation Success Rate of the Grape, Vitis aestivalis 'Norton/Cynthiana'

Abstract

Vitis aestivalis ‘Norton/Cynthiana’ is a grape native to the southeast region of the United States. The purpose of this research was to determine the appropriate time of year and/or time after last freeze that will yield the most successful propagation rate for Vitis aestivalis. It was hypothesized that the highest rate of propagation would be in early summer. Forty cuttings were taken semi-monthly over one year at the local vineyard, treated with 0.1% IBA and placed in the plant growth room located in the MTSU Biology greenhouse. Daily temperatures were recorded every day as well. After six weeks, cuttings were evaluated for root production. Rooting success rates were highest in the month of June at 15.0-27.5%, and 0-7.5% for other sampling dates. It was determined that the best time to propagate Vitis aestivalis is in June, ten weeks after the last temperature below 0°C or eight to nine weeks after the first budding.