Do propagation methods affect the fine root architecture of Africa plum (Dacryodes edulis)?

Belowground tree growth attributes determine whether associations will be complementary or competitive in an agroforestry context. A study on fine root (d a parts per thousand currency sign 2 mm) distribution patterns of Dacryodes edulis based on root density (RD), root length density (RLD) and root weight density (RWD) was conducted to evaluate the effect of propagation methods on rooting distribution. Results showed that D. edulis trees of seed origin had greater RD (P a parts per thousand currency sign 0.001) than trees of vegetative origin (cuttings and marcots) in the upper soil stratum (0-30 cm). Similarly, in the uppermost soil stratum (0-10 cm), RLD and RWDs varied significantly (P < 0.01). Trees of seed origin had an exponential distribution pattern for fine RD, RLD and RWD with depth to 80 cm. In contrast, the distribution pattern of fine roots of trees of vegetative origin (cuttings and marcots) were quadratic for the same variables which increased in the 20-30 cm soil depth stratum before declining steadily to a depth of 80 cm. The findings of this study suggest that D. edulis trees of vegetative origin (cuttings and marots) are likely to be less competitive than trees of seed origin when intercropped with shallow-rooted annual plants in an agroforestry system for belowground resources.

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