Layering is an easy method for propagating a plant. Unlike other methods (such as cuttings) the piece that is being propagated remains attached to the parent plant while it develops its own root system.
To layer a plant a supple branch is bent down to the ground while still attached to the parent plant. Where the bent piece touches the ground it is encouraged to form roots. Indeed, some plants such as jasmine and trailing lantana, will form natural layers where their stems touch the ground.
Layering is a suitable method for the propagation of azaleas, camellias, carnations, clematis, daphnes, grapes, lilacs, magnolias and wisterias.
The best time to start a layered plant is in early spring.
Method
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Select a low branch which can be pushed to ground level, or one that is already touching the ground. Dig the soil where the branch will touch the ground.
- Remove any leaves along the branch (but leave those at the tip) and, using a sharp knife, make an incision on the underside of the branch where it will be buried. The incision is best made at an angle, a ‘V’-shaped cut, at the bottom of the stem, near a node (dormant bud on the branch).
- Place a matchstick in the cut to keep it open and to encourage the roots to form.
- Push the branch into the soil and cover with 5-7cm (2-3″) of soil, making sure the incision is buried. Firm the soil and if necessary weigh down the branch with a rock, brick or piece of bent wire.
- Depending on the plant expect the process to take three to six months but perhaps up to a year to produce a new plant. Keep the soil moist while the new roots are developing from the cut in the layered branch. Leave the layered plant attached until strong new growth is apparent from its tip.
- Finally cut the branch from its parent and dig up the new plant with its new root system, to plant elsewhere in your garden.
Further reading
Cheap and easy propagation by Jane Edmanson (Lothian Australian Garden Series, 1991).
Growing Plants for Free: a Propagation Guide by Geoff Bryant (Simon & Schuster Good Gardening Guides Series, 1995).