How to Propagate Camellias
As one of the top ten famous traditional Chinese flowers, camellias are deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for their brilliant colors and graceful shapes. Mastering the correct propagation methods not only helps to continue the plant's superior characteristics but also allows the courtyard to burst with more beautiful camellia shadows. This article provides a detailed analysis of three mainstream propagation techniques to help you easily cultivate new plants.
Three Major Methods of Propagating Camellias
Illustrated Guide to Cutting Propagation
Cutting is the easiest method to master and is recommended to be done in spring and autumn (May-June / September-October). Select the semi-woody branches of the current year, retain 2-3 complete leaves, and make a 45-degree oblique cut at the bottom to increase the water absorption area. It is suggested to use a mixture of perlite and vermiculite in a 1:1 ratio as the substrate, with a cutting depth of 1/3 of the cutting. Cover with a film to maintain 80% humidity, and a constant temperature of 25°C can significantly improve the survival rate. Regularly opening the film for ventilation can effectively prevent the growth of mold.
Advanced Tutorial on Grafting Techniques
The grafting method is suitable for improving the characteristics of varieties, with oil tea trees being the preferred rootstock. When using the cleft grafting method, the cut depth of the rootstock is 1.5-2 cm, and the scion retains 2 full buds. Special attention should be paid to aligning the cambium layer and wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent rainwater from entering. After grafting, a sunshade shed should be set up to maintain an environmental temperature of 18-25°C. After about 30 days, the scion sprouting indicates survival. This method can achieve the ornamental effect of multi-colored flowers on a single tree.
Key Points for Implementing High-Air Layering
For robust mother plants, the ring剥皮 layering method can be used, with a 1cm ring-shaped stripping of the bark at the base of the branch. Use a mixture of sphagnum moss and rooting powder to wrap the wound, and secure the outer layer with transparent film for easy observation of root growth. Keep the substrate moist but without standing water, and new roots can be seen in about 60 days. This method does not damage the mother plant and is especially suitable for the propagation of precious varieties, with a success rate of over 90%.
No matter which propagation method is used, the new plants should be placed in a semi-shaded environment to acclimate for 2 weeks after transplanting, and foliar application with potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution should be used. Regularly check the soil pH value, maintaining a slightly acidic environment of 5.5-6.5 for better camellia growth. Mastering these key techniques will make you an expert in camellia cultivation.