Root Formation and Anatomical Examination in Cherry Laurel (Prunus Laurocerasus L.) Cuttings

Abstract

This study focused on the anatomical examination of root formation in cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus L.) cuttings. A total of 210 cuttings were prepared from 1-year-old shoots and planted in perlite medium under greenhouse conditions to assess their rooting performance. The rooting process of the cuttings was monitored for 150 days, with particular emphasis on the presence of leaves and cutting thickness. The number of roots in cherry laurel cuttings ranged from 2.33 to 19.38, with root length varying between 28.84 and 126.75 mm, root thickness between 1.52 and 2.51 mm, and the number of new leaves between 0.16 and 1.13. In anatomical examinations, the newly formed adventitious roots were fleshy, white, and highly fragile, developing rapidly. Our findings suggest that adventitious roots primarily originate from the vascular region (cambium, medullary rays, and secondary phloem parenchyma). Moreover, sclerenchyma cells in the phloem did not pose a mechanical barrier to root primordia formation. The study concluded that cherry laurel exhibits a high propensity for rooting, significantly influenced by factors such as the presence of leaves on the cuttings and cutting thickness. Further research focusing on molecular mechanisms and genetic variability could further enhance our understanding and application of cherry laurel in horticulture.