Rhododendron Layering

Layering is great for the gardener that is not in a hurry.This waiting time is necessary, you can expect to wait about 18 months before the new plant is self sustaining.As I am weeding throughout the year if I come across a flexible low branch with firm growth from the previous year;

I will dig a 3 to 4" deep trench in the soil below the branch. Then make a cut half-way through the upper side of the branch and pin the branch in the trench with a wire "hairpin".

Then I fill the trench back up with the soil which I add a little peat moss to and water it in.

I find August is a good time of year to do this since the seasons growth has become firm, although you can perform the layering at any time the ground is not frozen.

After the 18 months are up you are ready to cut the new plant off the 'mother' plant.

I always find this time so exciting for now I have created a new plant.

Here is the new Rhodo completely removed from the mother plant.

Here I want to show you it was well worth waiting the 18 months. It was a great success as you can see it has a good root system.

Here I will put the new plant in a pot for my new site for planting is not ready yet.Because their root systems are not deep do not plant in the pot to deep.

The dirt that you use for planting should be a mixture of 40% organic material at least 1/2 peat moss, 40% topsoil (not clay) and 20% sand.They must always be kept moist until you plant them.