Types of Propagation
What are the two main types of plant propagation?
Sexual and asexual propagation.
What is the purpose of plant division?
To separate a mature plant into smaller sections to create new plants.
What is layering?
Encouraging a stem to form roots while still attached to the parent plant.
What are the two types of cuttings you learned about?
Stem & Leaf
Why is temperature control important in propagation?
Warm temperatures encourage root formation.
In sexual propagation, what is used to grow new plants?
Seeds.
What is one example of a plant commonly propagated by division?
Example Answers:
Hostas, daylilies, or grasses.
What is the most common type of layering method?
Simple Layering
What’s the main purpose of using rooting hormone?
To stimulate faster and stronger root growth.
What tool can help maintain humidity for cuttings?
A misting system or humidity dome.
Which type of propagation produces plants identical to the parent?
Asexual Propagation
When is the best time of year to divide perennials?
Spring or Fall
Why does layering have a high success rate?
Because the stem is still attached and receives nutrients from the parent plant.
Why is moisture control important when rooting cuttings?
Too much causes rot, too little dries them out.
What is the ideal soil or medium for most propagation methods?
Well-draining, sterile medium like peat and perlite mix.
What part of the plant is used in most asexual propagation methods?
Vegetative Parts (Stems, Leaves, roots)
What should each new division include to grow successfully?
At least one growing point (or bud) and a healthy root system.
Name one plant that can be propagated by layering.
Strawberries, raspberries, or houseplants like pothos or philodendron.
What are two factors that affect rooting success in cuttings?
Temperature & Humidity Control
Why should propagation tools be sterilized before use?
To prevent disease spread.
Name one advantage and one disadvantage of asexual propagation.
Example Answer:
Advantage—identical traits; Disadvantage—less genetic diversity.
Why is dividing plants beneficial beyond just producing more plants?
Division helps rejuvenate older plants, improve growth and flowering, and prevent overcrowding in greenhouse or landscape settings.
What environmental conditions help roots form faster during layering?
Warm temperatures, consistent moisture, and correct light conditions.
How do leaf cuttings differ from stem cuttings?
Leaf cuttings grow roots and sometimes shoots from a leaf; stem cuttings already have nodes and buds.
What’s one way to increase your success rate when propagating plants?
Maintain proper light, humidity, and cleanliness.