Evaluation of the efficiency of different vegetative propagation methods of <i>Adansonia digitata</i> using organic supplements

The Adansonia digitata (Baobab) tree holds substantial ecological and economic importance in Africa, yet its propagation remains challenging. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was employed to assess the effects of different organic rooting supplements on callusing and root formation in baobab. The treatments included four organic rooting supplements (Aloe vera, Moringa, Banana, and Onion extracts) on callusing and root formation during the marcotting of Adansonia digitata, with distilled water as a control. Each treatment was replicated six times, with the individual samples randomly assigned within the layout. Healthy branches from 15-year-old baobab trees were selected for air layering. A 4-5 cm strip of bark was carefully removed 50-70 cm from the tip of each branch to expose the cambium layer, which is essential for stimulating root formation. A mixture of sawdust, wood ash, and manure was prepared in a 1:1:1 ratio to serve as the rooting medium. Data collected were analyzed using ANOVA and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test to assess differences among treatments for callusing and root number after eight weeks. Results indicated significant (p<0.05) variation in root number, with Aloe vera demonstrating the highest rooting success among treatments. However, no significant difference (p>0.05) was observed in callusing rates across treatments, though Aloe vera and Onion generally exhibited slightly higher callus formation compared to other treatments. These findings underscore the potential of Aloe vera as an effective, organic rooting supplement, offering a sustainable alternative for Baobab propagation. It is recommended that further exploration to optimized supplement combinations, concentrations, and biochemical mechanisms should be carried out to enhance Vegetative propagation.