The process of reproducing plants asexually is called propagation. Some of you may know it as cloning. Division, Layering and Cuttings are the three different practices. On this page, I'll explain the differences between Division, Layering and Cuttings and how you can do this yourself at home!
Aside from the process of a flower being pollinated and creating seeds, there are three main ways to create a new plant. These methods my seem confusing or even, intimidating but, once you understand them, they are actually quite easy to perform.
Now, many plants are different. Some need to be stronger than others before they can support one of these techniques. Some do better in spring when the weather is warm and some will do just fine in the cold. It's important that you do some research about your specific plant because, not all plants can be propagated with all three methods.
One more thing to consider is, some plants are "patented" which means it's actually illegal to make reproductions without obtaining permission or license to do so. Although, I won't condone it, I wouldn't let that stop you from experimenting with whatever plants you have for your own personal enjoyment and research.
If you decide to start distributing your new plants then, you may want to consider unpatented ones or seeking the license and/or permission to do so.
If you decide to start distributing your new plants then, you may want to consider unpatented ones or seeking the license and/or permission to do so.
Three Methods of Propagation
#1 Division
This is probably the easiest to do. It is simply dividing the plant into sections that have adequate leaves and roots for each one. Some plants are hardier than others so, they can handle a bit more distress.
Pull up the plant from it's soil. Look for strong branches and uncover the root stock to find out where they meet. Make sure there are adequate roots underneath each branch that can sustain the process of healing and growing into a new plant.
Using a blade, or a shovel for larger plants, you can simply cut the root system in half and place each into fresh soil with some generous water.
I've even had success with smaller plants by simply using my hands to separate some of the larger sections of roots. The main idea is to give each new plant adequate foliage for photosynthesis and adequate roots in order to establish itself in the ground.
#2 Layering
One could argue that this is the easiest method because many plants actually do this on their own! Layering happens when a low lying branch comes into contact with soil and begins to root directly from that branch, creating an entirely new plant. You see this in many vine like plants and even in some succulents.
You can help this along by finding low hanging branches that can be comfortably covered in soil. Using a clean blade, remove a section of the "bark" of the branch and cover it with soil, making sure to leave plenty of leaves on either side of the roots.
With some luck and the right circumstances, roots will take and a new stem will grow up from the section you covered with soil. Once adequate roots are established, you can just clip that branch and have an entirely new plant. Or if you have the room, just let it grow!
#3 Cuttings
This is probably the most common way to reproduce plants. Nearly every plant you can think of is capable of growing from a cutting. As I mentioned before, some plants need a bit more strength and size in order to accommodate surviving away from the mother plant so, do some research about your specific plant.
Softwood is generally new growth appearing in spring. These cuttings do well in warmer weather in well draining but, moist mediums. I have had the most success with sand and some with well draining potting soil. Again, different plants do well in different circumstances.
I've also had some success with softwood cuttings using the Test Tube Method | #artscienceEARTH
Hardwood is more established and "woody" and make great cuttings in winter. These cuttings are usually dormant so, they don't need to be incredibly warm and take much longer to root. Some plants are so hardy that they can stay outside and withstand the snow!
The Latest Propagation Posts on #artscienceEARTH
- April 12, 2019 | The Plastic Bottle Test Tube Method
- April 12, 2019 | The Glass Bottle Test Tube Method
The Latest Test Tube Method Posts on #artscienceEARTH
- April 12, 2019 | The Glass Bottle Test Tube Method
- April 12, 2019 | The Plastic Bottle Test Tube Method
Send Grow Vibes 💚
Josh | #artscienceEARTH
DISCLAIMER: It's fair to acknowledge that I AM NOT AN EXPERT.
I have no formal training or education regarding agriculture, horticulture, ecology or any other subjects appearing in this blog. I have access to the internet and a strong desire to constantly be learning new things. This entire blog is just as much about my own education as it is yours.
I also have a unique ability to "weed out" some of the nonsense and find reputable sources of information so, I'm confident that this information will help you understand this process. Many of the techniques that I share with you are new to me, too. More than that, it serves as an example that even if you have no experience or training, you can still have success and grow in your own garden!
Although, my intent is to share knowledge here, I treat much of this blog as a scientific journal. These are simply documents of scientific facts that I have either seen first hand are intend to recreate myself. So, please, do as much of your own research and use your own judgement with this information and embrace the journey of discovery.
"The only source of knowledge is experience." Albert Einstein
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