Layering Definition: a propagation method by which stems are rooted while still attached to the parent plant Uses propagation of “trailing” species (e.g., blackberries, raspberries) difficult-to-root species (e.g., filberts, Muscadine grapes, apple, and pear rootstocks) producing larger-sized plant specimens in a short time period (dieffenbachia, crotons)

Layering - advantages and disadvantages Advantages: simple, but highly effective rooting methods, requiring little equipment/facilities Disadvantages: slow, labor-intensive, cumbersome methods Current trends are away from layering in favor of other methods, esp. micropropagation

procedure - part of the stem is buried with the shoot tip out Simple layering procedure - part of the stem is buried with the shoot tip out features: usu. done in early spring, with dormant, 1-year-old shoots easily bent usu. rooted by fall useful for certain shrubs, filberts

How simple layering works nutrition stem continues to supply water/nutrients disrupted phloem (bending, girdling, incision) causes carbohydrate, auxin accumulation at the bend stress avoidance because propagule remains attached during rooting no nutrient leaching (as with mist) light exclusion stem sensitivity to auxin, reduced lignin production (etiolation, blanching effect)

Serpentine layering similar to simple layering - a branch is alternately covered/exposed useful for Muscadine grapes, Wisteria, Clematis

Air layering aka pot layerage, circumposition, marcottage, gootee aerial portion of a stem is girdled or wounded, with moist sphagnum moss (or other medium) used for light exclusion useful for tropical, subtropical trees/shrubs, including litchi, Ficus,croton, philodendron, etc.

Mound (stool) layering plants are cut back to “stubs” before new growth starts in the spring hilling starts when shoots are 3-5 in. long rooted stoolshoots are removed at the end of the growing season, then planted or stored mother plant “stubs” are left exposed till the following spring

Trench layering establishment of the mother bed: 1-year-old trees are planted at a 30˚-45˚ angle the following season, trees are laid flat in a trench, staked down and covered (just barely) with soil as buds break and grow out, soil is added, leaving shoot tips exposed 6-8 in. rooted layers (e.g., ‘Paradox’ walnuts) can be harvested at the end of the growing season

Plant modifications (natural layering) tip layering runners and stolons offsets suckers crown division