LAYERING
Layering is a variation of cutting in which the parent tree does
the "nursing". In the spring, a low-growing new shoot is bent
to the ground (without separation from the parent) and the tip
turned upwards so that a small U is formed. The shoot is then
slightly cut on the bottom of the U. A small recess is dug in the
soil and the bottom of the U is inserted, pegged down and covered
with soil which is then pressed down firmly. The tip of the shoot
will then project above the soil like a tiny tree. The soil around
it is kept moist and in the autumn it is completely severed from
the parent tree and should be ready for transplanting wherever
required.
C. DIVISION
Division or separation is really only a variation of cutting, but
since roots are on the part of the plant that is separated, it does
not normally require any "nursing" and can be transplanted into
position after removal.
Division is applicable to most plants where the new growth
develops roots at the same time. Most of the carpeting and compact growing plants are of this nature. The part of the plant is
gently prised from the soil so that roots remain undamaged and
the soil is gently shaken free. Then firmly separate the selected
growth from the parent plant with the hands, aided with your
small fork, and separating the roots at the same time. Do not
forget to put the old plant back to "bed" and make good the soil
where necessary.
I. SEEDING TRAY AND COMPOST
The seeding tray and compost will only be required for seeds
or the rootless type of cuttings (b). Porous earthenware trays
or pans are preferable to wooden trays; it is an advantage if they
have a filter or drainage holes in the bottom. A good drainage
layer of broken crocks is laid inside and then covered with a
compost that is porous but which will also retain warmth and
moisture. A specially prepared seeding compost (such as a John
Innes) can be bought or a suitable mixture can be made of one
to two parts of good sterile soil, one part of horticultural peat (or
good leaf mould) and one part of vermiculite (or silver sand), and
adding one of the excellent proprietary preparations for promoting root growths. This compost is thoroughly saturated, allowed
to drain, and should be quite moist when the seeds or cuttings
are inserted.
|
|
