Standardization of Optimum Stage for Grafting in Moringa [Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae)]

Aims: This research was carried out to standardize the suitable size and optimum stage for grafting of annual moringa scion cv. PKM 1 on perennial moringa rootstock based on the physical parameters of both rootstock and scion.

Study Design: The study was carried out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 6 treatments and 4 replications.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out TNAU Orchard of Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College & Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during 2021-2022.

Methodology: Here the perennial rootstock used was Moolanur moringa (MO 1) and the annual scion was PKM 1. The physical parameters were recorded after 14 and 21 days after grafting. The biochemical parameters were estimated with respective procedures and instruments.

Results: It can be concluded that the performance of the grafts of annual moringa cv. PKM 1 scion on Moolanur 1 perennial moringa rootstock with 0.51 cm diameter attained at 40 days after germination was superior with regard to yield and quality parameters when compared with the rootstock and scion individually.

Conclusion: Perennial moringa ecotype Moolanur moringa (MO 1) at 40 days after germination with a thickness of 0.51 cm is the best rootstock stage for successful grafting with annual moringa scion var. PKM 1. The study will be continued to assess the field performance of the grafted plants.