Methods of Propagation 



79 



about 1 in. deep in a hotbed of coconut fibre. The tops of Crotons, 

 Dracaenas, Araucarias, Aralia Sieboldi, and others also root when inserted 

 in a similar hotbed. 



Ringing". This method of propagation may be called overhead layer- 

 ing. It consists in making an upward or circular slit in the stem of 

 a plant that has become too tall or leggy. Some sphagnum moss and 



leaf mould is then tied round 

 the wound, and is kept damp 

 with the syringe every day. 

 In a short time the elaborated 

 descending sap from the leaves 

 develops a callus and a mass of 

 roots through the moss. When 

 a sufficient number of roots has 

 been produced, the rooted head 

 is severed and potted up. In 

 this way tall Dracaenas, Crotons, 

 Cordylines, Aralias, Ficus elas 



Fig. 68. Stem Cutting of Thunia Marshalliana 



A, Old stem showing fibres from joints. B, Young shoot 

 with roots at base (i nat. size). 



Fig. 69. Aerial Layering 



tica, American Carnations, &c., may be propagated, as well as by other 

 methods mentioned. If considered worth while, trees with branches too 

 far from the ground might be propagated in this way, but the trouble 

 would be to maintain moisture round the ringed portion. The sketch 

 (fig. 69) shows how this method of propagation may be adopted for 

 trees and shrubs, using a pot with a slit in one side for the purpose. 



Root Cutting's. By cutting up the roots of certain plants into pieces 

 2 or 3 in. long, and covering them with about 1 in. of gritty soil, it is 

 possible to raise new plants. This method of propagation may be prac- 

 tised about October and November, of in. February and March, the root 



