Propagation by Layering

Layering is an easy way of propagating plants. Simple layering consists of pegging down a branch or shoot into the soil where it roots. It is then detached from the parent plant and replanted elsewhere. Almost any tree or shrub can be propagated in this way.

Method -

In the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, pick a long young shoot or stem (these will root quicker than older wood).

Fork over and loosen the area of ground that you will be putting the shoot into and if the soil is heavy, mix in a quantity of sand and peat to a depth of 6 - 9 inches (15 - 23cm).

About 12 inches (30cm) from the tip of the shoot, wound the stem slightly by either twisting very slightly or by putting in a cut with a knife, diagonally up the stem for a length of about 1 inch (25mm). If using the cut method, insert a small piece of wood or small stone in the tongue to keep it open. This will help the formation of roots.

Using a piece of strong galvanised steel wire, form a hairpin shape and peg the stem down into the soil where the wound has been made. Cover to a depth of 2 - 3 inches (7 - 8 cm) with soil and firm well. Place a small garden cane adjacent to the protruding stem and tie the stem firmly to it to prevent the stem from moving about. Being careful not to wash the soil away, keep the soil watered well, particularly in hot weather.

Some plants such as forsythia, syringa (lilac), weigela, hebe, privet and philadelphus (mock orange) will root within 12 months but others such as magnolia, rhododendron, azalea and camellia may take longer. When the layers have rooted, lift them carefully using a garden fork and sever them from the parent plant. Replant immediately so that the roots do not dry out and treat as bare rooted plants.