The Rooting of Softwood Cuttings of Coffea Arabica

Abstract

At this station the rooting of softwood cuttings has proved to be the most successful method of vegetative propagation of Coffea arabica. Under favourable conditions over 75 per cent of those originally set in the propagating frames have rooted by the end of six months. Thus it is considered that the time has arrived to set out in full detail the technique employed, although, no doubt, there will be minor modifications as further experience is gained. The technique here described is that worked out to suit the conditions at the Coffee Research Station, Lyamungu, which is situated on the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro (latitude 30 S.) at an altitude of about 4,400 ft. The yearly rainfall shows great variation, the wettest months usually being April and May, when most of the year's rainfall occurs. There in a cool season after the long rains up till August, after which month the temperature can be expected to rise, reaching its peak in the hot dry months from January to March, when the aridity is great. The short rains are due about November, but are unreliable. It should be emphasized that the technique set out below will not necessarily apply to all coffee districts, with their varying climatic conditions.