Rooting of Shorea leprosula stem cuttings decreases with increasing leaf area

Rooting percentage at week 16 was highest in cuttings with a leaf area of 15 cm(2) (82%), followed by 30 cm(2) (68%) and 60 cm(2) (55%). Cuttings with 60 cm(2) leaf area appeared to suffer water deficit as reflected by higher transpiration rates (E) and leaf shedding compared to 15 cm(2) and 30 cm(2) leaf area. This indicates that it is necessary to reduce leaf area to minimise excessive water loss especially during periods of water stress. Photosynthesis rate (P-n) measured in leaves of cuttings prior to rooting was positive (1.8 mu mol CO2 m(-2) s(-1)). P-n and stomatal conductance (g(s)) of rooted cuttings were higher than in those which remained unrooted.