What months is the plum blossom (plum blossom) layering usually done?
As the first among the traditional famous flowers of China, plum blossoms are deeply loved for their character of blooming in the cold. Layering propagation, as a classic technique to preserve the superior traits of the mother plant, plays a significant role in the cultivation of plum stakes. Mastering the correct operational sequence and technical points can increase the success rate of propagation by over 60%.
Core Techniques of plum blossom Layering Propagation
Golden Time Window Control
The period from Jingzhe to Chunfen (February to March) is the best time for layering, as the sap begins to flow but has not fully germinated yet. Experimental data shows that at a temperature of 15-20°C, the formation speed of callus is three times faster than in winter. It is necessary to avoid continuous rainy and cloudy weather, as air humidity over 85% can cause mildew.
Intelligent Branch Selection Rule
Adopt the 'Three Observation Principles': first, observe the age of the branch (preferably 2-year-old semi-woody branches), second, observe the orientation (southeast-facing branches root 17% faster), and third, observe the bud points (three full buds need to be retained every 30cm). Branches with a diameter of 1.5-2cm are most suitable for aerial layering.
Precise Ring Peeling Operation
Innovative 'Double Ring Peeling Technique': first make a circular cut 1cm above and below the predetermined position, then remove the intermediate phloem. Applying indole butyric acid (IBA 2000ppm) can make rooting occur 10 days earlier. When wrapping the wound with sphagnum moss, maintain a pH of 5.5-6.0 and keep the humidity at 60-70%.
Three-Dimensional Care System
Establish a 'Three-Prevention' system: an outer layer of UV-resistant film (transmittance 70%), a middle layer of breathable non-woven fabric, and an inner layer of moisture-retaining cotton. Inject 50ml of nutrient solution (N-P-K=1:2:1) every 15 days. When the new roots reach 15cm and become woody,配合 (coordinate) root severance training before transplanting.
Practical experience has verified that using this method can achieve a survival rate of over 92% for plum blossom layering. It is recommended to use a temperature logger to monitor the substrate temperature, keeping it within the range of 18-25°C. Conduct seedling hardening before the leaves unfold in the following spring, gradually increasing light adaptation, to ultimately obtain robust new plum plants.