Changes in nutritional components and physiological parameters of Acer griseum stem cuttings during rooting

Acer griseum is an ornamental tree species with high horticultural value, but its cutting propagation is limited by poor rooting performance. However, the physiological basis for this persistent rooting failure, particularly the temporal dynamics of nutritional status and physiological responses during the cutting period, remains poorly understood. To address this gap, this study evaluated temporal changes in nutritional components and physiological indices during the cutting process under 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) treatment and a water control. Throughout the experimental period (0–50 days), contents of starch, soluble sugars, and soluble protein continuously decreased, indicating progressive depletion of internal nutrient reserves. Antioxidant enzyme activities generally decreased during the cutting period, whereas malondialdehyde content increased progressively, suggesting enhanced membrane lipid peroxidation. Notably, no adventitious roots were formed in either treatment throughout the entire experimental period. These results indicate that rapid nutrient depletion and unfavourable physiological status may contribute to the low rooting ability of A. griseum cuttings, providing useful information for improving vegetative propagation strategies of this species.