Layering: A propagation method where a stem or branch is encouraged to develop roots while still attached to the parent plant.
Layering is like giving a plant a head start on creating a new, independent life. It involves bending a stem or branch down to the ground and covering a portion of it with soil or rooting medium. The buried portion develops roots; once these roots are established, the new plant can be separated from the parent.
For home gardeners, layering is a relatively simple and reliable way to propagate certain plants, especially shrubs, and vines that are difficult to root from cuttings. It’s a natural process that many plants do independently, and gardeners can encourage it by providing the right conditions. Different layering techniques exist, such as simple layering, tip layering, and air layering, each suited for specific plants and situations. Layering can be a fun and rewarding way to expand your plant collection or create new plants to share with friends and neighbors.
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