Ways for Propagating Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons are distributed across the world. They are found throughout the northern hemisphere except in dry desert areas. This genus comprises plants with colorful flowers, making them a popular choice for landscape gardens. Rhododendrons grow into shrubs, a few may grow into trees of medium size. As seeds are produced in abundance, seed dispersion is the natural way for propagating rhododendrons. Besides they can also be propagated by using some commercial techniques.

The different ways for propagating rhododendrons are:

Cutting
Cutting is a vegetative method of propagating rhododendrons. In this method, the new plant is genetically identical to the parent plant. In other words, it is an exact clone of the parent plant. Cutting is the method in which a small cutting (section) is taken from the parent plant and rooted at some other place to form a new plant. The size of the cutting (usually 1 to 4 inches long) would depend upon the size of the parent plant. The section which is newest and skinniest, with a bud attached to it is selected. Before rooting the new plant directly into the soil, it has to be rooted in a rooting bed. The temperature of the soil and the moisture retention of the bed has to be controlled.

Grafting
Grafting is also a means of vegetative propagation for rhododendrons. Grafting is different from cutting in a way, that in grafting the cutting is rooted onto a plant or tree (understock) which is already rooted in soil. A 'V' shaped cut is made at the bottom of the cutting. A slit is made in the wood of the understock. The 'V' shaped cut is then inserted into the slit of the understock. The wood of the understock should be hard and of the same diameter as the cutting.

Layering
Layering is also a form of vegetative propagation, but it is not practiced on a commercial scale. Layering can also occur naturally. It is a simple process in which a branch of rhododendron, which you wish to replicate is made to touch the ground. It is then covered in soil and water. It can be supported with some weight to keep it in place. This is a slow process, as the new plant may take a couple of years before it can be actually separated from the parent plant.

Tissue Culture
Tissue culture or micro-propagation is a biotechnological process for propagating rhododendron. It is widely becoming popular for commercial propagation, as a large number of plants can be produced at once. The method includes adding a piece of rhododendron wood into a test tube containing agars and auxins. Thermodynamic conditions are controlled and proper sanitation is maintained. The wood then produces many nodules without roots. Each nodule is capable of producing a rhododendron plant, when rooted in soil.

Seed Dispersion
It is the simplest and natural method of propagating rhododendrons. The seeds of rhododendrons are very small and appear almost like dust particles. They can germinate within 3 to 8 weeks. As the seeds are tiny, they need a smooth surface to sprout. Also they cannot withstand chill, hence seeds should be ideally sown in summer. After the seeds sprout, the sapling can be transplanted into a pot or other container. The new plant looks similar to its parent, but it is genetically dissimilar.

These are few ways for propagating rhododendrons for household or commercial purposes. You can also apply your own gardening skills and start propagating rhododendrons in your own garden.