Reproduction of Rhododendron

1. Cutting

Making cuttings

When it comes to propagating Dewdrop Rhododendron, cuttings are the most commonly used method. In May every year, when the weather is warm and humid, we cut the sturdy old branches of Dujuan and keep a few leaves on the top, with a length of 5 to 6 cm. Be sure to remove the lower leaves, and you have the cuttings.

Germination environment

Dewdrop Azalea is suitable for growing in fertile, loose soil with a temperature of about 20 to 25 degrees. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight and water regularly.

2. Sowing

Artificial pollination

Under natural conditions, the Dew Rhododendron produces few seeds, so we need to artificially help pollinate the flowers to increase seed yield. When the azalea is in full bloom, select healthy mother flowers. Under greenhouse conditions, remove the stamens and excess buds and leaves. When mucus appears on the stigma, use a pen dipped in pollen to gently apply it on the stigma. Be careful not to use a hard brush; a brush is best.

Seed storage

Their seeds cannot be preserved for a long time, and over time a large number of seeds will fail to germinate. Here is a little knowledge to share with you. If it is an evergreen azalea, the seeds should be sown immediately after they are collected, while the seeds of deciduous azalea can wait until the spring of the following year to be planted.

soil

Select loose and fertile soil, pick out sand and stones, spray it with 40% formalin diluted 1:100, and then dry it for the purpose of disinfection. Add a layer of wood ash as fertilizer to the bottom of the pot, then add dried soil, level the surface, and compact it slightly. You can start sowing.

Post-sowing care

They will germinate five or six weeks after sowing. Remove some of the seedlings to avoid them being too dense. The seedlings should be covered with hay or something similar, and should not be exposed to direct sunlight, rain, or fertilizer. Only after the seedlings grow to 10 cm.

3. Use new long branches

This method is generally used for those precious species that are difficult to survive. Use a knife to cut an inclined plane at the bottom of the young branch to make a scion about three centimeters long. The rootstock is Rhododendron pubescens, and the young branches are grafted onto it. After completion, place it in a shade shed and cover it with plastic film to prevent water from being lost, thus maintaining humidity.