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 μmol CO 2 m −2 s −1). P n and stomatal conductance ( g s) of rooted cuttings were higher than in those which remained unrooted.