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Detailed Explanation of Seed Propagation Techniques for Rhododendron schlippenbachii

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The wild cold-resistant Rhododendron schlippenbachii naturally grows on mountains in Kuandian, Fengcheng and other places, and has adapted to the cold, humid, and slightly acidic soil environment on the mountains. It is extremely difficult to survive when introduced down the mountain for transplanting. Garden science and technology personnel made many efforts but did not succeed. Since 1998, we have conducted experiments on down-mountain transplanting, cutting propagation, and seed propagation of Rhododendron schlippenbachii, and only the seed propagation method succeeded. The seedling plants of Rhododendron schlippenbachii propagated by seed have well-developed root systems and grow quickly, but they need to be cultivated for 5 to 6 years before the seedling plants can enter the flowering period. 1. Seed collection in October

The wild cold-resistant Rhododendron schlippenbachii naturally grows on mountains in Kuandian, Fengcheng and other places, and has adapted to the cold, humid, and slightly acidic soil environment on the mountains. It is extremely difficult to survive when introduced down the mountain for transplanting. Garden science and technology personnel made many efforts but did not succeed. Since 1998, we have conducted experiments on down-mountain transplanting, cutting propagation, and seed propagation of Rhododendron schlippenbachii, and only the seed propagation method succeeded. The seedling plants of Rhododendron schlippenbachii propagated by seed have well-developed root systems and grow quickly, but they need to be cultivated for 5 to 6 years before the seedling plants can enter the flowering period.

1. Seed collection: Collect Rhododendron schlippenbachii seeds on the mountain from mid-to-late October. After collecting them, remove impurities, dry them in the sun, and store them in a dry, ventilated place. Sow in April to May of the following year.

2. Seedbed preparation: There are two types of seedbeds. One is to spread a layer of coarse sandy soil on the bed, then spread a layer of 10 cm thick humus soil that has been sifted through a sieve, and disinfect the soil. The other is to spread moss on the seedbed.

3. Sowing: Before sowing, first soak the seeds in warm water for 48 hours. When the seeds have just germinated, scatter them separately on the seedbed. Water every day. A seedbed covered with moss can produce seedlings in 7 days, and the seedling emergence rate can reach about 85%; a seedbed covered with organic-rich humus soil can produce seedlings in 10 days, and the seedling emergence rate is about 50%. The sown seedbed should be shaded, and a light transmittance of 50% is sufficient. After the first pair of true leaves grows, gradually increase the light.

4. Management during the seedling stage: First, strengthen water control. The soil moisture content is best at 30%, and the relative air humidity is 70%. Second, thin the seedlings appropriately after true leaves grow. Third, carry out seedling transplanting. Transplant 2-year-old seedlings, apply a small amount of fertilizer water, and at the same time strengthen pest and disease control.

In 2000, we transplanted the seed-propagated Rhododendron schlippenbachii seedlings into the courtyard of Jinjiangshan Park for open-field cultivation and normal management. Rhododendron schlippenbachii grows vigorously and has now overwintered safely for 5 consecutive years and has already bloomed.

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