Herbs - Herb Propagation - Layering |
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Page 5 of 5 This is by far the simplest propagation method and many perennial herbs perform layering without prompting. A stem touches moist ground and, before you know it, the stem has put down new roots. When this happens naturally, ensure there are sufficient new roots and then, using a sharp knife, sever the new plant from its mother. Carefully dig up and move it to its new location. Upright, woody stemmed herbs with flexible branches can also be layered. Select a stem near the ground that is young and flexible. Beginning at a point 3 to 4 inches from the tip, strip about 5 inches of foliage off the stem. Using a sharp knife, scrape the thin bark off 2 to 3 inches of the underside of the leafless stem. This process is called wounding and appears to accelerate the rooting process. Dig a small hole 2 to 3 inches deep with gently sloping sides below the prepared stem and carefully lay the branch in the hole (it may be necessary to peg it in place with a u-shaped wire) and cover with soil. If your soil is very heavy, you may want to add some peatmoss to allow for good aeration. Mulch the area or water regularly to keep moist. Layered stems may form roots in several weeks or months -- this is not a method for the inpatient gardener. When a gentle tug on the stem meets with some resistance, the stem has probably rooted and calls for a careful visual inspection. When the plant is ready, gently snip free and, gently, lift by the roots to its new location.
See Herbs - Introduction, for additional general herbal information.
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