Vegetative propagation trial by cuttings of cashew trees (Anacardium occidentale L.) in Burkina Faso

Abstract

The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.) plays an important role in the economy
and food security of Burkina Faso. The aim of this study was to investigate the species
ability to take cuttings. The objectives were to assess the effect of the level at which
cuttings were taken and the effect of two hormones on cuttings. The cuttings were
taken at Péni in the Sudanian zone, and the trial was set up at Ouagadougou in the
sub-Sahelian zone in a split plot design. The results show a significant difference
between sampling levels on bud-break rate. Cuttings taken at basal level had a better
bud break rate (0.71 ± 0.08) than those taken at apical level (0.61 ± 0.08). Cuttings
treated with AIB hormone showed a rooting rate of 0.83%, while those treated with
MYCOTRI and the control did not emit roots. These results suggest that the use of
hormones makes twig cuttings possible, and that cuttings taken from the basal part of
the crown perform better than those from the apical part. These results pave the way
for further research to perfect cashew cutting techniques in Burkina Faso.