Topic 4 Element 4

Question 1

What is the value in producing propagation protocols

Answer 1

Helps with planning and scheduling
Better productivity
Higher likelihood of success
Preserves information for others (Especially important for conservation projects)

Question 2

What are the factors that inform the development of protocols

Answer 2

• Hygiene considerations for the propagation area
• The size of module or tray to be used
• Specification for the growing medium, its pH and its AFP
• The temperature range required for rooting
• The range for relative humidity during the rooting stage
• Nutritional guidelines for the cuttings during their development
• Whether or not plant growth regulators are used
• How and when the cuttings should be watered
• How pests and diseases are going to be avoided or dealt with.

Question 3

Why is the effectiveness of the protocols important

Answer 3

Blueprints can be developed and refined if the success rate is below optimium
The protocol can be used to validate that all the parts were followed correctly

Question 4

What measurements would be used to measure the effectiveness of outcomes on a protocol

Answer 4

Percentage germination
Percentage rooting