A Comprehensive Study on the Impact of IBA-infused Rooting Powder on Rooting and Shoot Development in Citrus karna Hardwood Cuttings

Background: Within the expansive realm of citrus, rootstocks play a pivotal role in bolstering crop adaptability against the backdrop of both biotic and abiotic stresses. In the face of the contemporary climate change era, these rootstocks have emerged as indispensable tools, pivotal in countering the challenges posed by shifting environmental dynamics. The investigation explores the impact of Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA)-infused rooting powder on the root induction and shoot behaviour of Citrus karna hardwood cuttings. Methods: The experiment was conducted from August- November 2023 in the 50 per cent shade in the green 50 per cent shade in the green coloured shade net area with gat the School of Agriculture research farm at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab employed a randomized block design (RBD) comprising nine different treatments. Result: The impact of Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA)-infused rooting powder with Zinc Sulphate on Citrus karna hardwood cuttings. The T9 treatment, consisting of 0.15% IBA and 0.50% Zinc Sulphate, significantly outperforms other treatments. T9 achieved a high rooting percentage (92.6%), substantial root and shoot growth and overall improved plant vigour. The combination of IBA and Zinc enhances root induction, promoting robust root systems and vigorous shoot development. This research underscores the effectiveness of the IBA-Zinc combination in propagating Citrus karna cuttings, offering valuable insights for horticultural practices.