Protrays are related to _______. (IFFCO 2022)

• Date palms are commonly propagated through vegetative means, and "suckers" are the primary method used. Here's why:
-Offshoot Growth: Suckers are shoots that arise from the base of the parent palm tree. They develop their own root system and can be separated to grow into independent trees.
-Genetic Similarity: Propagating through suckers ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the parent tree, maintaining desirable traits like fruit quality and yield.
-Established Root System: Suckers already have a developed root system when separated, which increases their chances of successful establishment and growth.
-Common Practice: This method is widely used in date palm cultivation to ensure consistent quality and preserve superior varieties.

🔑Key Points:
-Offshoot and suckers propagation, also called asexual or vegetative propagation.
-The offshoot selected for removal must be disease and pest free and at least 3 – 5 years old.
-Base diameter between 20 – 35 cm and weighing over 10 kg but not more than 25 kg.
-February, March and September / October are the most suitable period for field planting.