Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
T-budding (or shield budding) is the most common vegetative propagation method used for commercial roses.
It involves inserting a single bud shield from a desired scion variety into a T-shaped incision on a rooted rootstock.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us arrange the steps of T-budding in their logical order:
1. (B) Selection and planting of rootstocks:
The first step is to select and grow a suitable, vigorous rootstock (such as *Rosa indica* var. *odorata*).
The rootstocks are planted in nursery beds until their stems reach the ideal thickness for budding.
2. (D) Selection and preparation of scion wood:
The breeder selects healthy, mature shoots (bud sticks) from the desired rose variety.
The leaves are removed, leaving a short petiole to protect the active, dormant buds.
3. (A) Incision of T-shaped cut on the rootstock stem:
A T-shaped cut (about 2.5 cm long) is made on the bark of the rootstock, 5 to 10 cm above the ground, using a sharp budding knife.
4. (C) Insertion of scion wood in the T-cut on rootstock stem:
The single bud shield (the scion bud) is sliced from the bud stick and carefully slid down into the flaps of the T-shaped incision on the rootstock.
5. (E) Wrapping of scion budded on rootstock stem with polythene:
The budded area is wrapped tightly with a polythene strip, leaving the bud exposed, to prevent water entry and secure the graft union.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct sequence of steps is (B), (D), (A), (C), (E).
This matches Option (C).