Trials to increase in vitro rooting of Olea europaea L-cuttings

Many factors influence the rooting, both in vitro and in vivo, of olive cuttings. Despite several studies regarding auxins, their optimal concentrations and synergism with other substances, many micropropagated olive cultivars still present low levels of rhizogenesis. The aim of the present trial was to verify the influence of different proliferation and rooting media on rhizogenesis of olive microcuttings. In vitro stock cultures, subcultured every 50 days for about two years, of Nocellara etnea and Carolea cultivars were used. Results show that proliferation and rooting media and the kind and concentration of auxins affect rooting and the speed at which it takes place.