Propagation by stem cuttings and root system structure of Jatropha curcas

Scarce knowledge about the propagation of Jatropha curcas is one of the limitations for the growth of cultivated area with this oilseed crop. The effect of stem cuttings length, basal area, and position on the branch on sprouting and early growth of jatropha plants were evaluated, and the effect of the propagation method on the structure of root system of adult plants was studied. The growth and development of Jatropha curcas plants were influenced by length and basal area of stem cuttings. Short cuttings favor early sprouting, but long and thick cuttings promote more shoot and root growth. Plants originated from stem cuttings obtained from the base of the branch grew more shoot structures (buds, stems, and leaves) than stem cutting from middle and apex of the branch. Leaf area at 75 days after planting was not influenced by the dimensions of stem cutting. The most vigorous root system was observed in the plants that originate from direct seeding, without any transplanting. Propagation using bag or root plug interferes with the formation of a deep tap root. Propagation through stem cuttings resulted in a very different root system structure, with predominance of superficial and thin roots. When the cap of a tap root is lost, the plant was able to regenerate a new root.