Stefan Gandev

Title : Modern techniques for walnut propagation - hot callus, epicotyl grafting and water nutrient solution system

Abstract:

Three modern techniques for walnut propagation are considered - hot callus, epicotyl grafting and water nutrient solution system. The presented results aim to compare the above methods, as well as to give the relevant conclusions and recommendations for use by manufacturers.

 The experiments were conducted in the period 2015-2021 at the Institute of Fruit Growing, Bulgaria. Plants of common walnut (Juglans regia L.) for rootstocks and the Bulgarian walnut variety ‘’Izvor 10’’ for scions were used. At this stage of the study, the results show that the percentage of callus formation is different in the three methods of grafting. The average interception rate during the survey period was 85.5% for the hot callus method, 71.0% for epicotyl propagated plants and 37.5% for water nutrient solution system.

It can be concluded that propagation of walnut using the techniques of hot callus, epicotyl grafting and water nutrient solution system is possible. The most useful technique for practice is hot callus method.

Audience Take Away Notes: 

• Modern techniques for walnut propagation - hot callus, epicotyl grafting and water nutrient solution system
• Relevant conclusions and recommendations for use by manufacturers.

Biography:

Stefan Gandev is a professor, PhD and DSc. in the field of fruit growing. He is an author of 108 publications with and co-author of 4 monographs. He has also developed a technology for walnut propagation, and is a co-breeder of two new walnut cultivars. Professor Stefan Gandev  is a Chairman of the Scientific Council for Fruit Growing and Viticulture at the Agricultural Academy, a member of the editorial board of the journals ‘Plant Sciences’, ‘Journal of Mountain Agriculture on the Balkans’ and in ‘Acta Horticulturae’ issues 1139 and 1259. He has been a convener of an international symposium and has been a moderator and member of the scientific committee of a number of other international symposia. Prof. Stefan Gandev is a member of the ‘Plant Genetic Resources’ and ‘Pome and Stone Fruits’ commissions of the International Society for Horticultural Science. Prof. Gandev is a director of the Institute of Fruit Growing and a member of the Advisory Council on Fruit Growing at the Minister of Agriculture in the Republic of Bulgaria.