Guides
What is Propagation? A Guide to Growing Plants
Feb
If you’ve ever wondered ‘what is propagation’, you’re in the right place! In this blog, we’ll dive into what propagation is, how it works, and the best products available from Global Air Supplies to help you propagate plants like a pro.
What is Propagation?
Propagation is the process of growing new plants from existing ones. This is done through seeds (sexual propagation) or through vegetative means (asexual propagation), like cuttings (also known as cloning), layering, or division. It is a fantastic way to replicate your favourite plants or experiment with different species. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned grower, anyone can master propagation with the correct techniques and tools.
The Different Methods of Propagation
There are multiple ways to propagate plants; each with their own advantages.
Growing From Seed (Sexual Propagation)
This is the most common form of propagation, as seeds are a natural way for plants to reproduce. Seeds carry the genetic information from the parent plant, and when planted in the right conditions, they grow into new plants. This method is widely used for annuals, vegetables, and many flowers.
Cuttings or Cloning (Asexual Propagation)
Cuttings are a part of a plant (usually a stem, leaf, or root) which is taken from a parent plant to encourage it to grow roots. This is commonly done with houseplants like pothos, geraniums, and ivy.
Division
Division is great for propagating plants that naturally spread by forming clumps, such as hostas or daylilies. This method creates genetic clones of the parent plant, therefore resulting plants will be identical. Simply separate the plant into smaller sections, each with roots attached, and plant them individually.
Layering
A stem is bent and buried in soil while still attached to the parent plant. Over time, roots will form at the buried part of the stem, and once they’ve rooted, the new plant can be separated from the parent. This method is commonly used for woody plants and vines like blackberries and strawberries.
Grafting
Grafting is a more advanced method which involves joining two plants together—usually a hardy rootstock with a scion (a piece of a different plant). This is often done with fruit trees to combine the best traits of both plants, such as disease resistance and fruit quality.
Why Propagate?
So, now that we know exactly what propagation is, and several ways of doing it, why bother with it?
Grow Plants Tailored to Your Needs
Propagation allows you to clone plants with specific traits, such as high yields, stunning flowers, or delicious flavours. No matter the plant, you can create multiple copies suited to your taste and requirements.
Preserve Rare or Unique Varieties
If you have a cherished plant with sentimental value or a rare species that’s hard to find, propagation ensures it lives on for years. It’s an excellent way to safeguard heirloom plants or share them with friends and family.
Save Money
Why waste money on new plants when you can grow an endless supply from plants you already own? Propagation is a cost-effective solution for gardeners, particularly when working with expensive or speciality plants.
Increase Productivity
By propagating high-performing plants, such as those with exceptional fruiting or flowering abilities, you can ensure consistently high yielding grows.
Achieve Consistency and Control
Propagation guarantees uniformity. Each cutting or clone is genetically identical to its parent plant, meaning you’ll enjoy consistent results – whether it’s taste, size, colour, or growth habits. This reliability is invaluable for both hobbyists and professional growers.
Products to Help You with Propagation
While the concept of propagation is simple, there are a few tools that can make the process easier and more successful. Global Air Supplies stocks a wide range of products to support you through every step of your growing journey, whether you’re working with cuttings, seeds, or divisions.
Propagators
Global Air Supplies stocks a range of propagators suitable for all levels of growers. From basic unheated propagators such as Garland to X-Stream Aeroponic Propagators, there’s something for everyone.
Lighting
SunBlaster has a range a LED and T5 conversion lamps, specifically designed with the optimum light spectrum for propagating.
Propagating Media
There are multiple types of media which are suitable for use during propagation. However, many brands have developed small cubes of media to make the process smoother. Examples include coco cubes from X-Stream and Eazy Plugs, to rockwool cubes from Cultiwool.
Final Thoughts: What is Propagation and Why Should You Try It?
Propagation is a great way to grow plants from cuttings, seeds, or divisions. Not only does it save money, but it also allows you to clone plants with specific traits, such as high yields, stunning flowers, or delicious flavours.
If you’re ready to dive into propagation, Global Air Supplies has everything you need to get started. Check out our full range of propagation products here or read on to learn more about the different types of propagators and the pros and cons of growing from seeds versus cuttings.
