Abstract
The effect of the supporting materials on the training of shoots in the production of potted Hedera helix cuttings was evaluated. Stalks made of Chamaechyparis obtusa woods with or without coconut-fiber mats (CMF) were used as supporting materials (props). The aerial roots adhered to the surfaces of props and radiated in all directions on them in the case where props without CFM (x-props) were used. On the other hand, aerial root extended to the surfaces of mats and penetrated into coconut fibers when props with CFM (y-props) were used. The ratio of rooted cuttings that adhered and climbed up to the top of the stalk was 33 % when x-props were used, while about 70 % in the case of y-props. In the case where no props were used, some shoots extended horizontally and twisted with the next shoot. In addition, some shoots with aerial roots touched the medium of other pots, and the roots grew into the medium. From these results, it is suggested that the use of props made of C. obtusa woods are useful in the production of potted H. helix cuttings.
