Detailed Explanation of the Air Layering Propagation Method and Steps for Plum Blossom
Plum blossom is a highly well-known flower in China, and its planting area is also very large. Plum blossom has very high ornamental value, its flower buds can also be used as medicine, and some varieties can be processed into candied fruit and jam, making it very popular among many people. When planting plum blossom for propagation, the commonly used propagation method is air layering. So how should plum blossom be propagated by air layering? Below, the editor brings you the air layering propagation method for plum blossom. Let's take a look!
1. Layering Time
Before carrying out layering propagation on plum blossom, we must first determine the layering time. The suitable time for layering plum blossom is generally from February to March each year, which is the key period for the growth of new shoots of plum blossom. It should not be done on rainy days, but should be done on sunny days. If done on rainy days, the survival rate of layering will be very low. At the latest, it should be completed by the Beginning of Spring. Generally, if layering propagation is carried out in spring, then the plant can be separated from the mother plant in early winter.
2. Selecting Branches for Layering
After determining the layering time, we should begin selecting the branches for layering. The quality of the branches directly determines the survival rate of layering. First, the branches should mainly be those grown within three years. Ensure the branches are robust and free from pests and diseases. Different ages of branches within three years also require different layering methods. For example, if the branches are 1-2 years old, then the ordinary layering method can be used. If the branches are 2-3 years old, then air layering should be mainly used.
3. Branch Treatment
After the branches are selected, we also need to properly treat the branches. If the branches are not treated, then the rooting rate of layering will be very low. First, we need to perform girdling on the branches, and the girdling position should be around the middle of the branch. When girdling, keep the width at about 5 cm. Girdle until reaching the xylem of the branch. After girdling, spray an appropriate amount of carbendazim on the girdled area for disinfection. This prevents the wound from being infected and rotting, which would affect rooting. Then apply an appropriate amount of rooting agent to improve the rooting rate.
4. Rooting Management
After the branches are treated, wrap moist fertile soil or moss with plastic film, then wrap it around the girdled area. Then tie both ends of the plastic film tightly to prevent air and water leakage. Then strengthen management. If layering is done in spring, roots will form after the plant sheds its leaves in autumn, and after rooting, it can be separated from the mother plant and planted. After replanting, we should pay attention to appropriate watering, but watering should not be excessive. If the temperature is relatively low, then good cold protection and insulation work should also be done to prevent frost damage and improve the survival rate of the branches. When spring arrives and the temperature rises, an appropriate amount of nitrogen fertilizer can be applied.
The above is a brief introduction to the air layering propagation method for plum blossom. That's all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only, and I hope it can help everyone!