How to propagate cedar

Seed propagation of cedar

Sowing time

Seed propagation of cedar is generally carried out in mid-to-late March.

Seeding substrate

The seedbed should be made of sandy loam with good drainage and aeration.

Sowing method

Before sowing, soak the seeds in cold water for 1-2 days, then sow them after drying. They will begin to sprout after 3-5 days and can last for about 1 month. The germination rate is relatively high.

Work after sowing

During the cedar seedling stage, it is necessary to provide shade and prevent and control damping-off disease and cutworm damage. One-year-old seedlings can reach 30-40 cm in height and need to be transplanted in the spring of the following year.

Cutting propagation of cedar

Cutting time

Propagation by cuttings is carried out before late March in spring. The best time to do this in summer is late July.

Cutting method

In spring, first select and cut healthy and strong annual branches from the mother tree. It is best to soak them in rooting powder to promote rooting. Then insert the cuttings into sandy loam with good air permeability, water them thoroughly, and build a double-layer shade shed to provide shade after inserting. In summer, it is advisable to choose semi-lignified branches of the current year as cuttings. After planting, increase the shade and cover with a layer of plastic film to maintain humidity.

Management after cutting

About 30-50 days after planting, callus tissue will be formed. At this time, foliar fertilization can be carried out by spraying 0.2% urea and 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution. Transplantation work is carried out after the propagation seedlings have been in the bed for 1-2 years, and it is suitable to be carried out in February and March. When transplanting, the plants need to have a ball and a supporting pole. The spacing between rows and plants should be controlled at about 50 cm during the first transplant, and expanded to 1-2 meters during the second transplant. It is best to apply top dressing 2-3 times during the growth period of cedar. The seedlings are easily damaged by diseases and insects and need to be controlled in time.