Propagation of Vaccinium membranaceum and V. myrtilloides by seeds, hardwood stem, and rhizome cutting methods

Propagation trials were completed using seeds, hardwood stem cuttings, and rhizome cuttings from black huckleberry (Vaccinium membranaceum Douglas ex Torr. [Ericaceae]) and velvetleaf blueberry (V. myrtilloides Michx. [Ericaceae]) growing in central British Columbia, Canada. Seed germination success rates for V. membranaceum were 26.0% in 2006, 4.7% in 2007, and 66.0% in 2008, compared with 14.7% in 2006, 13.0% in 2007, and 28.5% in 2008 for V. myrtilloides. Germination rates for seeds sown directly after extraction from fresh berries were similar to those that had been air-dried for 48 h, and those stored for 1 y. Germination rates did vary significantly between Vaccinium species and among different years. Hardwood stem cuttings of both V. membranaceum and V. myrtilloides, taken in February, had low rooting rates (2.5%). Rooting hormone formulation, rooting substrate, and bottom heat failed to influence rooting success. Rhizome cuttings of V. myrtilloides had an 85% success rate, compared to 70% for V. membranaceum. Bottom heat significantly reduced the success rate of rhizome cuttings, whereas rooting substrate had no significant influence. Mass production of either V. membranaceum or V. myrtilloides plants was easiest by using seedlings grown from seeds; however, if clonal plants are desired (or a short production time required), rhizome cuttings might be the best option, rather than hardwood stem cuttings.