Reproduction of Western Rhododendron

Cutting propagation method

Propagation by cuttings usually begins between May and June. For cuttings, choose young stems that are close to maturity, and the desired length should be about 12-15cm. Cut off the leaves at the bottom of the branches, leaving only the tender leaves at the top, and then insert the branches into the selected fertile potting soil, with the depth being about half of the branches submerged. After planting, you need to pay attention to keeping the soil moist. It will take root and grow in about two months.

Layering

Layering propagation is usually carried out in spring in April or May. Select mature branches that are two or three years old, use a knife to peel off the bark into a 1.5 cm wide ring about 20 cm from the top, then wrap and layer them with plastic wrap. Make sure to keep the soil moist during the growth period. New roots will grow in about four to five months, and you can plant them directly in pots after cutting the roots.

Grafting

If you choose to propagate by grafting, you should do it during the rainy season. Generally, a two-year-old sturdy Rhododendron is selected as the rootstock, and then the vigorously growing young branches of Rhododendron are used as scion. Trim the scion branches, retain the tender leaves on the top, and cut the bottom into a wedge shape. Cut a 3cm long incision on the rootstock, then insert the scion branch into it, wrap the interface tightly, and make sure to keep it moist. The new branch will survive in about two months.

Seed propagation

Azalea is usually sown in April in spring when the temperature is preferably 22-24℃. Be sure to disinfect the soil before sowing. The seeds of azalea are relatively small, so there is no need to cover them with soil after sowing, just press them lightly. It will take about half a month to germinate, but the growth rate of the seedlings is relatively slow. They can be transplanted when the new seedlings grow two leaves. Transplantation requires loose, fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic sandy soil. You can use a thorough mix of rotted soil, mixed culture soil and coarse sand as the substrate. Pay attention to maintaining moisture in the soil layer during the growth of the seedlings. It should be noted that it takes four to five years for azaleas propagated by seeds to bloom. If you want the azaleas to bloom as soon as possible, it is better to use other methods of propagation.