INCREASING SHRUBS BY CUTTINGS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 72, 26 March 1932, Page 5 (Supplement)

INCREASING SHRUBS BY CUTTINGS.

The best time; to undertake the propagation of shrubs by means of cuttings is in March, as at that time the young growths are in just the right condition for the purpose—half-ripened. Select for the purpose shoots of moderate thickness, and remove them, if possible, with a small portion of older wood adhering to the base—known to gardeners as a "heeL" Where this cannot be managed the growth should be severed cleanly immediately beneath a leaf. The 6oft tops of the shoots are best removed as a rule, and the cuttings should be from three to six inches in length. Where comparatively small numbers are being dealt with it is best to use 4in and sin flower pots in which to root the cuttings. Prepare the soil by passing it through a fine sieve, and add plenty of sand. For the same reason see that the pots are well drained; a little rubble should be placed over the crocks to prevent the fine soil washing down and choking the drainage. Press the compost quite firmly into the pots, and over the surface place a layer of fine sand. This allows a little sand to go to the bottom of each hole as it is made, which greatly assists the formation of roots. In fact, the cuttings can be rooted quite well in pure sand, the reason being of course that there is no danger of surplus moisture lying round the stems, as may easily happen when soil is used. A sin pot will hold from six to eight cuttings. See that each is made quite firm, and water thoroughly at once with a fine-rosed can. A "close" atmosphere is necessary for quick rooting, and this is easily provided by means of a small frame. If a few pots only are being used a box covered with sheets of glass will do equally well. It will be necessary to shade the cuttings from sunshine for some weeks, and water must be given as necessary, but avoid keeping the soil saturated. Roots will begin to form in about a month, and air should be given gradually then. If it is intended to keep the young plants in a frame for the winter and plant them in spring, it will be advisable to repot them when nicely rooted. Among flowering shrubs suitable for propagation now are the following popular sorts: —Flowering Currant (Ribes), shrubby Veronica, Mock Orange Guelder Rose, Spiraea, Golden Bell (Forsythia), Lilac, Wiegela, and Kerrila japonica (double).