A Comparison of the Growth of the ‘Purpurea’ Silver Birch Cultivar (Betula pendula Roth) Propagated by Grafting and with the in Vitro Culture Method

Abstract

Background. There are few studies comparing the growth of ornamental trees obtained with different propagation methods. Producers compete by using the propagation methods that result in better growth of trees in the nursery. The aim of the experiment was to compare how two propagation methods influenced the growth of ‘Purpurea’ silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) trees. Material and methods. Trees propagated by traditional grafting and with the in vitro tissue culture method were under observation for a few years. The height and diameter of the trunk, the length and diameter of side shoots and the fresh weight of the plants were measured. Results. The birch trees obtained by grafting were characterised by a bigger trunk diameter. Those propagated with the in vitro tissue culture method had more lateral shoots, which were longer. Regardless of the propagation method, the trees did not differ significantly in height, diameter of lateral shoots or fresh weight. Conclusions. Both propagation methods were equally good and they can be used in nursery practice. However, it is necessary to estimate the cost of production to choose the less expensive propagation method.