How to propagate Robinia pseudoacacia 'Idaho'? A detailed explanation of propagation methods for landscaping nursery stock
Robinia pseudoacacia 'Idaho' is an ideal rare tree species introduced from abroad in recent years for beautifying and greening urban landscapes. Whether for ornamental landscaping, afforestation and sand fixation, or improving the ecological environment, it demonstrates enormous advantages and potential through its unique characteristics. It will also play a huge role in promoting the adjustment of rural industrial structure and increasing farmers' income.
Because Robinia pseudoacacia 'Idaho' was introduced to China relatively recently, the vast number of farmers are not very familiar with its propagation methods. Based on several years of cultivation experience, the author has drawn the following conclusions for everyone's reference.
1. Site selection and land preparation: Choose sandy soil or black soil on high, dry terrain with good drainage and loose texture. Irrigation equipment is required. Apply 2-3 cubic meters of farmyard manure per 667 sq m. Form ridges with a ridge spacing of 50 cm and a plant spacing of 40 cm.
2. Treatment of root cuttings: Cut the root cuttings into segments of about 8 cm, with smooth, even cuts. Soak the cut root segments in a solution of ABT No. 1 rooting powder at 50 mg/kg for 1-2 hours, then remove and drain dry.
3. Planting of root cuttings: Before planting, check the soil moisture. If soil about 3 cm below the surface can be squeezed into a ball by hand and does not crumble when released, the moisture is adequate. For dry plots, water first before planting.
Place the root segments flat in the prepared holes, cover with soil at a thickness of 5-6 cm. Plant about 3,000 root segments per 667 sq m.
4. Management during the seedling stage: After planting, press the soil firmly and keep it moist. Use 40% omethoate emulsifiable concentrate at 1,000 times dilution to control aphids. Weed early and while weeds are small to ensure the nursery is free of weeds. After hoeing, cultivate the soil promptly, building up as much soil as possible to prevent lodging later.
After the Robinia pseudoacacia 'Idaho' seedlings have all emerged, when the seedlings are about 30 cm tall, prune the first round of branches, and thereafter prune any branches as soon as they appear.
5. Harvest and storage of root cuttings: Generally, first-year root cuttings are not harvested in autumn. In the following spring, dig the root cuttings out of the ground. If possible, sell them as soon as they are dug. If they cannot be sold in time, the root cuttings must be stored. During storage, maintain the moisture of the root cuttings, but do not let them become too waterlogged, as waterlogged root cuttings rot easily. For first-year seedlings, after the root cuttings are cut in spring, if they cannot be planted in time, heel them in to prevent water loss.