Micro Cloning: a Multiple Cloning Technique for Avocados Using Micro Containers

A multiple cloning technique was developed and successfully implemented commercially. This technique is derived from the so-called Frolich technique, which is used as a standard by various nurseries world-wide. This technique implies the positioning of 55 ml micro containers over the multiple etiolated shoots (one per shoot), which developed simultaneously and consecutively from the so called nurse graft. Root initiation occurs within these containers. After successful grafting of these shoots to a commercial scion cultivar, these fully developed avocado plants (clones) are separated from the nurse seedling just above the nurse graft. Usually after hardening off, the wholesale nursery will transplant these micro clones to 7 liter containers (plant bags). However, with this technique it is possible to profitably deliver large numbers of these micro clones to distant growers or satellite nurseries world-wide, to be grown by them to a field transplantable or saleable tree size. Compared to any other, this technique is unique in the sense that it is possible to produce clonal plants small in size, light in weight and in compliance with the highest phytosanitary standards. Consequently massive transport savings over long distances are possible and the export of nursery trees becomes a reality.