WEEK 8 (Propagation Techniques)

 FPA150

Hi, everyone! Salam UiTM di hatiku 💜. My name is Nik Nur Fatihah Binti Mohd Lazin and now currently studying at UiTM Melaka, Campus Jasin as one of Diploma Agrotechnology (AT1102B) student. I am 19 years old and living in Terengganu.

     I am mainly doing this portfolio to introduce the students to our activities that we did on every Friday. FPA150 provides each student of plant propagation techniques and develop core skills in plant nursery management. In addition, It is an opportunity for the students to acquire skills in conducting activities in nursery managements as well as to acquire hands-on experience in nursery practices.

WEEKLY REPORT

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS:

1. Gloves

2. Boots

3. Clean folding knife

4. Handkerchief

5. Plastic wrap

6. Rooting powder

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Figure 1

One of my friends gave a public speech about plant fertilizers

Figure 2

The lecturer imparted knowledge to us about types of plant propagation techniques, including their advantages and disadvantages

Types of plant propagation techniques:

The advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages

1. Cost-effective: Many propagation methods, such as seed propagation, are relatively low-cost compared to purchasing mature plants.

2. Genetic diversity: Sexual propagation methods, like seeds, contribute to genetic diversity, potentially leading to stronger and more adaptable plant populations.

3. Large-scale production: Techniques like cuttings and tissue culture enable mass production of plants with specific desirable traits, facilitating agricultural and horticultural industries.

4. Time efficiency: Some methods, like vegetative propagation, allow for quicker reproduction compared to waiting for seeds to germinate and mature.

Disadvantages

1. Genetic uniformity: Asexual propagation methods can result in genetically identical plants, increasing susceptibility to diseases and pests. This lack of diversity may also limit adaptability.

2. Labor-intensive: Some techniques, such as grafting and tissue culture, can be labor-intensive and require specialized skills, making them less practical for widespread use.

3. Resource dependency: Certain methods may require specific resources like growth hormones, controlled environments, or skilled personnel, adding to the overall cost and complexity.

4. Disease transmission: Propagation through cuttings or grafting can potentially transmit diseases from the parent plant to the propagated ones, leading to widespread issues in crops or ornamental plants.

Figure 3

For today's task, we performed two plant propagation techniques: budding for the rubber tree and cutting for the Turnera ulmifolia plant. Initially, the lecturer guided us on how to execute these methods

Figure 4

For the budding propagation method of the rubber tree, 10 plants in polybags are required, whereas for the Turnera ulmifolia plant, 5 plants in polybags are needed for each class

Figure 5

Initially, we cut the Turnera plant approximately 15 cm, and then we dipped it in rooting powder

Figure 6

Rooting powder has special plant hormones, like auxins,  that make it easier for a new plant to grow roots from a cutting. It's like giving the cutting a little boost to help it root and grow into a new plant more successfully

Figure 7

Afterward, we inserted the stick containing rooting powder into the soil in polybags and moistened it with water

Figure 8

Moving forward, the second task involved carefully cutting the stem of the rubber plant, as shown in the picture. It was emphasized to ensure that the folding knife used was cleaned to prevent the introduction of diseases or pathogens to the plant

Figure 9

(BEFORE)

After cutting the rubber stem, the white liquid, which is the latex, will be observed

Figure 10

(AFTER)

Cleaning the latex after cutting the stem removes dirt and impurities, keeping the latex pure and preventing contamination, which is important for its quality and usability

Figure 11

The buds of the rubber tree that have already grown are carefully cut, and they are then pasted onto the rubber plant, ensuring that the size fits appropriately

Figure 12

(BEFORE)

Finally, the budding site was wrapped with plastic to keep it moist and safe, creating a protected environment to help the new bud grow successfully. It was then watered

Figure 13

(AFTER)

The task is completed, and the class is dismissed