Osmanthus is one of China's ten traditional famous flowers. Its tree shape is full and rounded, and in autumn, it is covered in blossoms, its fragrance spreading far and wide, making it deeply loved by people and widely planted in many regions. So how do you propagate an osmanthus tree ? Let's find out below.
How to propagate osmanthus trees?
There are five ways to propagate osmanthus trees: seed propagation, cutting propagation, layering propagation, grafting propagation, and division propagation. Regardless of the method used, it is essential to maintain soil moisture and provide adequate sunlight to ensure the healthy growth of the osmanthus seedlings .
Methods of propagating osmanthus trees
1. Seed propagation
Osmanthus seeds have a physiological after-ripening characteristic and must be properly stored and germinated before sowing and seedling cultivation. There are two methods for storing osmanthus seeds: sand stratification and water stratification. Sand stratification involves covering the seeds with layers of damp sand and placing them in a cool, well-ventilated place; water stratification involves placing the seeds in a breathable bag, sealing the opening tightly, and then immersing them in cold water. Sowing propagation is best done in spring and autumn. Sufficient base fertilizer should be applied, then the treated seeds should be evenly sown on the soil surface, covered with a layer of fine sand, and then covered with straw mats to retain moisture. Keep the soil moist, and seedlings will emerge in the same year.
2. Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings utilizes branches or leaves of the osmanthus tree. When taking cuttings, select healthy, disease-free branches, remove the leaves, leaving 2-3 buds at the top, and make a slanted cut at the bottom. Soak the base of the cutting in rooting powder solution, insert it into a seedbed, keep the soil moist, provide appropriate shade, and wait for roots to develop.
3. Grafting propagation
Grafting can improve the growth rate and flower quality of osmanthus trees. It is usually done in spring. Select healthy, robust branches as scions, cut them at an angle, and fit them perfectly against the cut on the rootstock . Secure them with wire and cover with plastic film to keep them moist. After successful grafting, maintain suitable temperature and humidity to ensure survival.
4. Propagation by layering
Layering propagation is best done in spring and summer. Select a robust, disease-free branch, bend the lower end, and press it into moist soil. Cover with a thin layer of soil and firm it down with a stone . Water thoroughly and ensure good air circulation. After a period of time, roots will develop at the layered point, forming a new osmanthus seedling.
5. Propagation by division
Division propagation is usually carried out in spring, by separating the suckers sprouting from the base of the osmanthus tree and planting them separately. This method is simple, easy to implement, and has a high survival rate.
