Sexual Reproduction Plant Propagation Original work from “Applied Technologies” edited and used with permission by Dr. Teri Hamlin

Table of Contents Introduction to Plant Propagation Sexual Propagation Asexual Propagation Stem, Leaf, Cuttings Layering Separation & Division Tissue Culture Budding and Grafting

Introduction What is Plant Propagation? The multiplication of plants by both sexual and asexual means Requires a knowledge of plants and how to manipulate them.

Sexual Propagation The propagation of plants from SEEDS. The most common type of propagation.

A seed is a whole plant in a compact form surrounded by a seed coat. SEEDS What is a seed? A seed is a whole plant in a compact form surrounded by a seed coat. It is a ripened flower ovule.

Seed Composition 3 parts of a seed: Seed Coat Endosperm (Protects the embryonic plant.) Embryo Endosperm (The new plant) (Food storage tissue)

Viability & Longevity If a seed is viable it will germinate and grow normally. Longevity is how long the seed will remain viable (meaning quality). Influences of viability species Storage Conditions -- 40-45 degrees F Time

Dormancy Requirements Physical Dormancy Physiological Dormancy

(Seed Coat Dormancy) Physical Dormancy Overcome by scarification 3 methods - Mechanical treatment (using a file or sand paper) - Hot water treatment (boiling water) - Sulfuric Acid treatment

Physiological Dormancy Photodormancy- is a condition in which a seed requires light in order to germinate. ( tobacco) Thermodormancy- inhibition of seed germination in high temperatures. (lettuce) It’s a seeds sensitivity to temperature.

Stratification Seed must experience: 1. warm, dry period 2. cool, moist period --- 60-90 days at 40-45 degrees F 3. warm moist period

Selection of Seeds Select locally grown seeds Select certified seeds -have been tested for germination ability and purity. (Ball Seed) Choose hybrid seeds for greater vigor Select primed ( presoaked) seeds

Indirect vs. Direct Seeding plants sown indoors plants must be transplanted tomatoes, peppers, eggplant seeded directly into permanent growing area most economical method corn, melons, beans, beets, peas, etc..