32 



PLANT CULTURE 



Fig. 7 — Diagram of Layers of Various Sorts 

 a, A diagonal cut in the stem which induces roots to be sent out. c, A continuous 

 layer, each node produces a plant, ex. grapes, ch, Chinese la^-er. The stock is prepared 

 as in a, and covered by sphagnum moss, m. Mound layers — note root action, p. 

 Another method of Chinese layering. A pot is used, broken in two and tied about 

 the branch, s. Simple layer. A branch is pegged to the soil after having a cut made 

 at a where the roots should start, t, Tip layer. Used successfully with Raspberries. 



sharp knife make an incision in the lower part of the branch at the 

 place where it is desired to have the roots. The incision should 

 vary in length and depth with the thickness of the branch; it should 

 never be deeper than half the thickness of the wood, and should be 

 made toward the end of the branch so that the tongue will eventually 

 form the base of the stem after being separated from the parent 

 plant. The layer, while undergoing the process of rooting, should 

 be held in place with a peg, which must be strong enough to last 

 several months in the ground. With few exceptions shrubs and 

 vines are layered during Summer while the plants are in active 

 growth. In layering, it should be kept in mind that the soil sur- 

 rounding the part from which roots are desired should never be al- 

 lowed to get dust dry ; to prevent this a little sphagnum moss should 

 be placed around the cut part, in cases where the rooting is a slow 

 process; and a layer of moss, or other material, on the surface of the 

 soil will prevent a too rapid evaporation of moisture. But in any 



