Agamic propagation of giant reed (Arundo donax L.) in semi-arid Mediterranean environment

This review describes giant reed propagation methods taking intoaccount propagation organs and transplanting times. Field results ofresearches carried out in semi-arid Mediterranean environment arepresented and discussed with the aim to help producers to make decisionson the most suitable establishment method and season of transplant.Temperature and soil water availability are limiting factors constrainingoptimal establishment of giant reed in Mediterranean semiaridenvironment. Days with maximum temperatures of 17°C (T max)and minimum temperatures over 7.5°C (T min) coupled with good soilwater availability were found as suitable for stems sprouting.Rhizomes optimal transplanting time resulted in spring, while horizontalstem cuttings in autumn. Vertical stem cutting showed worstresults in stem density and biomass yield in every transplanting time.Rhizomes of big size showed greater biomass dry matter yield both atthe first year and in the subsequent years after establishment. Stemcuttings biomass yield level off in the subsequent years after establishment.The irrigation supplied during the establishment showed a beneficialeffect in all transplanting times and propagation methods.