Effect of Cutting Date on Rooting of Hardwood Stem Cuttings of Ficus nitida

الملخص

This study was carried out during the 2023/2024 season at the Faculty of Agriculture – University of Benghazi (Kufra branch), with the aim of evaluating the effect of cutting date of hardwood stem cuttings on the rooting success of Ficus nitida (L.). The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications, including three cutting dates (January 20, February 20, and March 20). Rooting performance was assessed through several indicators: rooting percentage, number of roots, root length, and fresh and dry weights. The results showed that the third date (March 20) was significantly superior, recording the highest rooting percentage (35.50%), number of roots (18.09 roots), root length (13.33 cm), fresh weight (5.39 g), and dry weight (2.95 g). These differences are attributed to seasonal physiological changes, such as increased auxin levels, higher carbohydrate-to-nitrogen ratio, and elevated levels of stimulatory phenolic compounds like Lutelin-7-O-glucoside, alongside reduced levels of inhibitory compounds such as S-hydroxyl mandelic acid. The findings indicate that the timing of cutting collection is a decisive factor in improving rooting efficiency in Ficus nitida.