TEKNIK PERBANYAKAN GENERATIF TANAMAN KAYU PUTIH (MELALEUCA CAJUPUTI) DI PERSEMAIAN UPTD BSPTH DINAS KEHUTANAN PROVINSI SUMATERA BARAT

Abstract

Cajuput tree (Melaleuca cajuputi) is one of the forest plant species widely cultivated in Indonesia due to its ability to produce essential oil with high economic value. Cajuput oil is obtained through the distillation of leaves and twigs, with 1,8-cineole as its main compound, which is widely used in various health and industrial products. The success of cajuput plantation development is highly dependent on the availability of high-quality seedlings; therefore, appropriate propagation techniques play an important role in nursery activities. This study employed a participatory observation method. The objectives of this study were to determine the process of generative propagation of Melaleuca cajuputi from seed preparation to seedlings ready for planting and to identify the factors affecting seed germination and seedling growth in the nursery. The results showed that the use of seeds obtained from physiologically mature fruits, suitable growing media, and intensive maintenance practices supported successful germination and seedling development. In addition, internal factors such as genetic quality, seed viability, and seed vigor, as well as external factors including growing media conditions, water availability, temperature, air humidity, light intensity, and maintenance practices, significantly influenced germination success and seedling growth. These factors contributed to the production of stronger and more uniform seedlings.