What are the common propagation methods for chrysanthemums?
The chrysanthemum has been a flower deeply loved by people since ancient times, and many people grow chrysanthemums, so how many propagation methods are there for chrysanthemums? Let's take a look.
1. Cuttage propagation
The timing of cuttage depends on the characteristics of the variety and the local climate conditions. Cut healthy new branches free of pests and diseases as cuttings; the cuttings are 10-13 cm long, the seedbed ground should be flat, the suitable temperature is 15-18°C, and the soil should not be too dry or too wet. When cutting, first remove all the leaves within 5-7 cm of the lower end of the cutting, keep the upper leaves, and insert the cutting 5-7 cm deep into the soil. Leave about 3 cm of the top exposed above the soil surface, water thoroughly, cover with a layer of straw, and roots will form in about 20 days.
2. Division propagation
When chrysanthemums grow too vigorously, division propagation can be carried out, generally around Qingming, which is the most suitable time. Division can also be done together with repotting. First tip the chrysanthemum out together with its roots, remove the soil from the roots, let them spread out naturally, and then divide them according to their natural form. The dividing knife should be sterilized, and it is best to separate them with a single cut.
3. Layering propagation
Carry this out on cloudy and rainy days. The first time is around Minor Heat (early July): first press the chrysanthemum branches down, cover them firmly with wet mud every 10 cm, pinch off the tips, so that new branches sprout from the leaf axils of the tips; the second time is around Major Heat (late July): press down the newly sprouted branches in the same way as the first time, and apply one topdressing of decomposed human manure and urine, then pinch the tips around End of Heat (late August).
4. Seed propagation
Seed propagation is generally suitable for breeding new varieties. From October to December each year, after the chrysanthemums are harvested, wait until the spring of the following year to sow. First scatter the seeds evenly on the substrate, then cover with soil 2-3 times as thick as the seeds, cover with plastic wrap, and place in a spot at around 20 degrees; they will germinate in about two weeks.
5. Grafting propagation
If you want chrysanthemums to grow more vigorously, you can use grafting to propagate them. Yellow wormwood can be used for grafting; in winter it is best to graft in a greenhouse, or in March of spring to raise seedlings in a hotbed, and grafting can be successful either way.