A plant propagation method--layering

American Horticultural Society Plant Propagation: The Fully Illustrated Plant-by-Plant Manual of Practical Techniques

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A common type of Propagation is layering. Layering in turn has six different types that can be utilized in order to get the best results. These include simple layering, tip layering, compound layering, mound layering, air layering, and natural layering.

To engage in simple Plant Propagation layering, bend a stem close to the ground and cover it with soil part way. You should leave around six to ten inches above the soil and stake the bent plant in place so that it will remain in place. Many gardeners and farmers make use of a good rooting compound to improve the success of propagation.

Eventually, a new rooting system will take place. This is a type of layering that works well with climbing roses, honeysuckle, boxwood, and any other low laying plant.

Tip layering is the second type of layering, and is similar. Digging a hole that is four inches deep. In that hole you should place the tip of a plant and cover that with soil.

The tip will grow down then up, allowing roots to form at the spot where the plant spurts upwards. This works well with many types of blackberries.

Compound layering is the same thing as simple layering, but the important difference is that the stem of the plant is covered in multiple sections, giving rise to multiple root systems. This works best with vine plants, such as philodendron and grapes.

Mound layering is more complicated than the previously mentioned layers. You'll need to cut the plant during its dormant season so that it is barely an inch above the soil.

New buds will produce shoots in the spring, which you should cover with soil as they grow. Roots will then begin to grow on these news shoots. Magnolia is one of the common plants to use this practice.

Air layering is a complicated process that depends upon whether you are dealing with a woody or green stem. It involves cutting the stem and covering with moss, then wrapping in plastic.

This step is not for the beginning gardener, as it is not as much of a guarantee as the other types of layering.

Finally, the last type of layering is natural layering. These are types of layers that occur naturally without any human interference. The most edible and famous of these examples are strawberries.Overall layering is one of the most popular forms of plant propagation.