Field and in vitro methods of propagation of the African locust bean tree (Parkin biglobosa (Jacq.) (Benth.)

Stem cutting in non-mist propagators, air layering and in vitro propagation were investigated as means of vegetative propagation of Parkia biglobosa. The results of the non-mist propagation experiment show that it is possible to root single-node stem cuttings from juvenile P. biglobosa plants in non -mist propagators. The highest percentage of rooting (35%) was achieved by the application of 1000 g m(-3) IBA and NAA. Propagation of single-node ste m cuttings from mature trees was, however, not a success. The results from the air layering experiment indicate that it is also possible to propagate P. biglobosa by air layering. The application of hormone (200 g m(-3) IBA a nd NAA) produced the highest percentage of rooting of air layers (16%). The results of the in vitro propagation experiment reveal that the method offe rs an alternative opportunity for rapid multiplication of the tree. MS medi um supplemented with 6 mg l(-1) IAA was the best for shoot initiation (81.7 %) whereas 4-5 mg l(-1) IAA gave the highest percentage of explants with ro ots (8.3%). Root promotion did not correspond well with IBA in both MS and WPM media. Transplanted in vitro rooted shoots were well acclimatized in th e greenhouse and all plantlets exhibited some mature characteristics includ ing compound leaves and multiple roots.