Propagação vegetativa e seminífera de pitaia (Hylocereus undatus (Haw.) Britton & Rose)

Abstract

The intent of this research was to expand knowledge in relation to the propagation of pitaya (Hylocereus undatus (Haw.) Britton & Rose). The main objective was to elucidate forms of propagation of this fruitful cactus which has been commercially explored. There are very few bibliographical citations and available publications related to the subject directed to smallholders. Thus, four experiments were carried out in the orchards of Universidade Federal de Lavras - UFLA, from September, 2006 to August, 2007. The experiments were the following: 1 - influence of substratum, humidity chamber and storage for the germination of pitaya seeds; 2 - cladode length for the rooting of pitaya; 3 - cladode pieces for the rooting of pitaya; 4 - depth and the influence of the apical dominance in the vegetative propagation of pitaya. The results obtained were: 1 - pitaya seeds can be stored for one year in cold chamber maintaining its viability; vermiculite and the use of humid chamber has positively influenced the speed and percentage of germination of the seeds; 2 - cladode length has a direct influence in the rooting, being the 20 cm ones or longer the most suitable for obtaining clones; 3 - basal pieces are the best candidates for propagation by division; 4 - For obtaining clones, the depth of 1 cm into the substratum coupled with an apical dominance is most adequate. In this context there is a compelling need to continue scientific exploration of the red pitaya plant and understand its potential.