Five different methods of propagating plants are; by seed, cuttings, division, layering and propagation by bulbs.
Seeds are the result of sexual reproduction where flowers pollinated and fertilized ovule develops into a seed. Flowers can be self-pollinated or cross pollinated. Cutting propagation is a form of asexual reproduction and all daughter plants will have identical characteristics to the parent plant from which they are taken. Cuttings can be made from both the stem and root system and plants grown from this method mature faster than those grown from seed.
Division and layering methods
Division is a method of propagating plants by separating mature plants into smaller batches than can continue to grow into larger specimens. Plants divided include agapanthus and dieties.
In layering method, an aerial stem is wounded, routine hormone applied and rooting medium wrapped around the wound and sealed. Roses can be layered by taking long stems, lowering them into the ground and covering stems with soil which encourages new root development.
Bulbs and tubers
Before planting, bulbs should be treated with s systemic fungicide to protect the plants from fungal pathogens. Use a well draining mix should to prevent bulbs from rotting. Winter bulbs such as watsonia, daffodils, tulips etc. are grown from bulbs, tubers and corms.
Seed and cuttings
Seed trays, germination media, propagation bed and a reliable irrigation system are important before sowing seeds. Fill the trays with high quality germination medium. Medium should contain fine fibres with high water holding capacity.
Cuttings purchased in form of plugs are kept in a greenhouse or propagation bed to harden off. This will make the plants less sensitive to stress after hardening off. Species grown by cuttings include lavender.
