How to propagate the redbud? A summary of common propagation methods

The redbud plant has a graceful posture, a distinctive shape, and bright, vivid flowers. It is commonly seen in courtyards, parks, and along streets, and is an excellent ornamental tree for gardens. The redbud can also be grown as a potted ornamental, and its medicinal value is also extremely high. So do you know its propagation methods? Incorrect propagation methods can easily lead to plant death. Below, the editor will explain the redbud propagation methods for everyone.

Propagation methods

The redbud propagation methods mainly include several: sowing, division, layering, cuttings, and grafting.

Sowing propagation

After the fruit matures from September to October, collect the pods, take the seeds, and store them in a dry, cool place to overwinter. Sow in spring from March to April. Before sowing, soak the seeds in warm water so they absorb water and swell, then place them in a 15 degree environment to germinate, watering them with warm water once or twice a day. When the seed coat shows white, they can be sown in the seedbed. Seedlings will emerge after half a month. After emergence, thin them appropriately. When the seedlings grow 3-4 leaves, they can be transplanted. The transplanting soil needs to be loose, fertile, and well-drained.

Division propagation

The redbud has a well-developed root system and easily produces root suckers. Before sprouting in spring or in autumn, separate the lateral roots connecting the sucker shoots to the mother plant, and plant them separately. They are easy to survive. In autumn, the plants need protection for the separated lateral roots to overwinter, and are planted out the following spring. Generally, they can bloom after two years.

Layering propagation

Layering propagation is best during the spring growing season. Select a strong-growing branch, peel off a small section of bark, about 1-3cm, exposing the xylem beneath the bark, apply diluted rooting powder 2-3cm above the peeled bark, and after it air-dries, wrap the wounded area with plastic film, fill it with soil, water it, and then tie both sides of the film tightly.

Cutting propagation

Cutting propagation is carried out during the summer growing season. Cut its growing young shoots, choose loose, fertile, well-drained sandy soil, and insert the young shoots into the sandy soil. It is generally suitable for home cultivation.

Grafting propagation

Grafting propagation is carried out during the summer growing season. Because the redbud is not cold-tolerant, grafting propagation is not suitable for northern regions. Cut off young shoots of the current year as cuttings. The buds or branches of the Canadian redbud can be used as scions. The scions require plants with pure variety, vigorous growth, and no diseases. Branches facing the sun are mostly selected. After collecting the scions, remove the leaves promptly and begin grafting. If the weather is hot and dry during grafting, irrigate thoroughly once one to two days in advance, which can improve the grafting survival rate. Check whether the grafted plants have survived after about 20 days. If not, they should be dealt with promptly.

The above is an introduction to several common propagation methods of the redbud. The redbud likes a humid environment. After planting, water it promptly to keep the soil moist. It likes fertilizer; if fertility is insufficient, the branches and leaves will be sparse.