3

Uni
t Plant Propagation

INTRODUCTION
Plant propagation, in simple words, may be
defined as multiplication or reproduction of plants.
Commercialisation of crops leads to the development
of various techniques and procedures of plant
propagation. Each technique has its own merits and
demerits.
Each plant responds differently to different
methods of propagation. Various techniques of
propagation have been developed with the objective to
have uniformity in crops, early bearing, increased
production, resistance against pests and diseases, and
introduce certain characters in new generation. These
objectives have made plant propagation interesting
and challenging.
Propagation of plant is the involvement of science
and art in a skillful way. Basic knowledge and skill of
it can be a better source of income through commercial
nurseries. It helps in maintaining the plant stock and
preserving endangered (extinct) species.
Plants can be propagated by sexual and asexual
means. Sexual means includes propagation by seeds,
 NOTES while asexual propagation is based on the utilisation of
vegetative parts of plants for raising new ones.
Vegetative parts of plants like shoots, leaves, roots,
stem, buds and underground parts are used in
different ways for reproducing new plants. The most
common asexual propagation methods include cutting,
layering, grafting and budding, which need specialised
skill and are done differently in different plants.
Growing of tissues in controlled conditions is an
advance and recent method of vegetative propagation.
It is known as ‘tissue culture’. It is a highly specialised
technique of propagation. By using this technique, a
large number of true-to-type virus-free saplings can be
produced in a short span.

What is a seed?
A seed is a ripened ovule developed after fertilisation.
It consists of an ‘embryo’ and stored food material,
both of which are enclosed in a special covering
known as ‘seed coat’. Plants germinate from
seeds when they are provided with favourable
growing conditions.

TYPES OF PROPAGATION
Sexual propagation
Propagation or multiplication of plants by seeds is
known as ‘sexual propagation’. Seeds are formed as
a result of successful fertilisation and combination of
parental gametes. It is an old and easy method and is
widely used for the propagation of crops like ornamental
annuals, vegetables, medicinal and fruit plants, such
as papaya.

Merits of sexual propagation

• Plants propagated by seeds live longer, are
vigorous and more resistant to biotic (insect-pests
and diseases) and abiotic stresses (environmental
conditions).
• It is an easy, simple and convenient method of
plant propagation.

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 • Some plants like papaya, marigold, chilli, NOTES
capsicum, tomato, etc., cannot be propagated by
asexual method.
• It is the only means of creating genetic diversity
of plants.
• New varieties and cultivars of ornamental
and vegetable crops can be developed only by
this method.
• A large number of rootstocks for budding and
grafting purpose is also raised by this method.
• Seeds can be transported easily and stored for a
longer time using this method.

Demerits of sexual propagation

• Sexually propagated plants show variations
and are not genetically true-to-type to the
mother plants.
• Plants that are propagated through seeds have
long gestation period, which results in delayed
flowering and fruiting.
• Plants grow vigorously and cause obstruction
in intercultural practices like harvesting
and spraying.
• Advantages offered by rootstocks and scion as in
asexual propagation cannot be exploited through
sexual method.
• Crop species, which do not produce seeds like
pineapple, banana, strawberry, fig, jasmine,
hibiscus, bougainvillea, etc., cannot multiply by
this method.

Asexual propagation
It is also called ‘vegetative propagation’. The vegetative parts
of a plant like leaf, stem, root or their modified forms are
used for propagation. Most of the horticultural crops are
commercially propagated by vegetative or asexual
method of propagation.

Merits of asexual propagation

• Many fruit and ornamental plants that do not
produce seeds are multiplied by this method.

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES • Plants propagated by asexual propagation are
true-to-type genetically.
• By top working (using budding and grafting), old
and economically low productive fruit plants can
be converted into superior ones.
• Advantages offered by rootstocks and scion can be
exploited through asexual method.
• Maturity is uniform and the plant gives quality yield.
• Plants propagated by asexual method are
small in size, so spraying of chemicals and
harvesting are easy.
• This method enables noble plant production, e.g.,
different colours of flowers in a single rose plant
and different types of mangoes in one mango plant
can be produced through asexual method only.

Demerits of asexual propagation

• By vegetative propagation, new varieties cannot
be developed.
• It requires specialised skills, so it is an expensive
method of propagation.
• The life span of asexually propagated plants is
short as compared to sexually propagated ones.
• These plants are more prone to biotic and
abiotic stresses.

SESSION 1: PLANT PROPAGATION BY CUTTING

Cutting
Cutting is a detached vegetative part of a plant, which
on separation and planting is able to regenerate the
missing parts and develop itself into a new plant. It
is an inexpensive and quick method of propagation.
A large number of uniform plants can be produced
using few parent plants. It does not involve specialised
skills. The method is named after the part of plant
used for cutting, e.g., stem, root and leaf.

Stem cutting
Based on the age and maturity of shoots detached for
vegetative propagation, stem cuttings is of four types.

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 (i) Hardwood cutting
(ii) Semi-hardwood cutting
(iii) Softwood cutting
(iv) Herbaceous cutting

Hardwood cutting
Such a cutting is taken from woody plants.
Mostly, deciduous plants are propagated by
this method. One-year old mature branch is
cut into pieces of suitable sizes and planted
in the rooting medium, e.g., rose, grapes, fig,
pomegranate, bougainvillea,tabernaemontana,
lagerstroemia, jasminum, hibiscus, etc.
Procedure
• Select branches of one-year old
healthy plants, having pencil thickness.
Cut the branches into 10–15 cm long Fig. 3.1: Hardwood cuttings
cuttings.
• Long cuttings are used to raise rootstocks for
fruit trees. Each cutting must have at least 4–5
dormant vegetative buds. Leaves and thorns,
if present, are completely removed. This checks
transpiration loss.
• A slanting cut is given at the base of the cuttings
just below the node and a straight upper cut is
given away from the top bud.
• The cut portion will help identify the planting
position. Slanting cut at the base is given so that
a large area of the cuttings is in contact with the
rooting medium for inducing roots.
• The secretion of hormones at the bud near the
cut portion induces rooting. Straight cut at upper
end reduces transpiration loss, which can be
inhibited by the application of wax.
• The cuttings are planted slant-wise in a nursery
bed or small poly bags for growing plants. Callus
tissues form the cambium layer and rooting
takes place in this region. The best season for
planting the cuttings is monsoon for evergreen
plants and November–February for deciduous
plants. Cuttings can be planted in greenhouse or

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PLANT PROPAGATION
poly-house for better results.

GARDENER – CLASS XI
 Semi-hardwood cutting
A semi-hardwood cutting is taken from
4 to 9-month old shoots of current season
woody plants. Most ornamental foliage
plants like croton, acalyphas, aralias,
diffenbachia, russelia, cestrum, nerium, etc.,
are propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings.
Procedure
Semi-hardwood cuttings are prepared from
branches having pencil thickness. The
length of these cuttings varies from 7.5 to
15 cm. The cuttings must have at least 4–5
dormant vegetative buds. Some leaves are
retained as they help in preparing food by
Fig. 3.2: Semi-hardwood cuttings photosynthesis. Large leaves are reduced
in size by cutting. A slant basal cut is
given just near the vegetative bud and a straight top
cut must be given away from the bud. The slant cut
helps to expose more area of the cambium layer, which
helps in more water absorption and callus formation.
The upper straight cut minimises exposure to the
atmosphere, which reduces transpiration loss from the
cuttings. It is useful to dip the top of the cuttings in
wax to check transpiration and infections. Dipping the
base of the cuttings before
planting in IBA @ 5000 ppm
induces early rooting. The cuttings
are planted in slanting position so
that their maximum base is in
contact with the rooting medium.
The planting season for semi-
hardwood cuttings is monsoon.
Commercially, such cuttings are
rooted under mist spray or fog.
Softwood cutting
Such a cutting is taken from
Fig. 3.3: Softwood cuttings herbaceous or succulent plants.
Shoots of 2 to 3-month old plants
are selected for softwood cuttings. Examples are
alternanthera, coleus, duranta, clerodendrum, etc.
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GARDENER – CLASS XI
Procedure
Softwood cuttings are prepared from tender but
mature branches. The length of these cuttings varies
from 10–12 cm. Tender shoots do not have sufficient
food material. Hence, all leaves present on the shoots
are retained for photosynthesis. The cutting material
are gathered early in the morning and must be kept
moist by keeping them in a wet cloth. Sandy loam
medium is the best for planting softwood cuttings.
Herbaceous cutting
Such a cutting is taken from herbaceous plants. Shoots
of 1 to 2-month old plants are selected for herbaceous
cuttings. Examples are chrysanthemum, iresine, pilea,
dahlia, petunia, carnation, marigold, etc.
Procedure
Herbaceous cuttings are made from tender
succulents, especially the leafy part of the
stems of herbaceous plants. Terminal,
measuring 8–12 cm, of a healthy shoot
is cut and the basal leaves are removed,
leaving the upper leaves undisturbed. The
cuttings once detached must not desiccate
at the cut and are rooted well under mist.
The application of auxins promotes the
regeneration of adventitious roots. Sandy
loam medium is the best for planting
herbaceous cuttings.

Leaf cutting Fig. 3.4: Herbaceous cuttings

Selection of cutting
Plants with thick fleshy leaves having
buds are propagated by leaf cutting.
Vegetative buds are present in the notches
of leaf margin (bryophyllum) or on the vein
(begonia rex). Leaf blade or pieces of it
with bud are put on the rooting medium
under favourable conditions. In case of
black raspberry, the leaf blade, along with
petiole and a short piece of the stem with
Fig. 3.5: Propagation through leaf (bryophyllum)

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES attached axillary buds, are kept in the medium for
rooting. Plants like snake plant (senseveria), blackberry,
rhododendron and bryophyllum are propagated by this
method.

Practical Exercise
Activity

Prepare hardwood cutting.

Material required: Branch of bougainvillea, secateurs or
sharp cutter, rooting hormone IBA, nursery bed
Procedure
• Select a healthy bougainvillea plant.
• Now, select a matured branch of last season growth
of bougainvillea and separate it from the plant.
• Remove the leaves over it without damaging the buds.
• Leave one or two petioles at 5−10 cm distance on
the branch.
• Cut the branch into cuttings of 10−15 cm length
with at least 3−4 buds on each cutting.
• Make a slanting sharp cut at the bottom just below
the node and avoid crushing the stem.
• Dip the basal portion in rooting hormone like IBA of
requisite concentration.
• Plant the stem cutting upright or in slanting position
in rows in the sand bed at a distance of 10 cm between
rows, as well as, within the rows.
• Keep the newly planted cuttings in partial shade
until new shoots sprout from the buds.
• Keep the cuttings moist at all times by providing
them with adequate air circulation and sunlight.
• After sufficient rooting, transfer the cuttings into a
polythene bag or pot.

Check Your Progress

A. Fill in the Blanks

1. Multiplication or reproduction of plants is called

.
2. Plants that do not produce seeds are propagated by
.
3. Growing of tissues in controlled conditions is
known as .
4. The process of reproduction of plants by seeds is
called propagation.
5. Plants propagated by live longer.

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 6. Sexually propagated plants show .
NOTES
7. Plants propagated through seeds have
juvenile phase.
8. Vegetative propagation is also called
propagation.
9. Bougainvillea is propagated by .

B. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Bryophyllum is propagated by .
(a) root cutting (b) stem cutting
(c) leaf cutting (d) seeds
2. Jasminum is propagated by .
(a) root (b) stem
(c) leaf (d) seed
3. Asexually propagated plants .
(a) are true-to-type (b) bears late fruit
(c) live longer (d) have large canopy
4. Hardwood cutting is, generally, used in
branch.
(a) one-year old (b) two-year old
(c) three-year old (d) four-year old

C. Subjective Questions

1. Differentiate between sexual and asexual propagation.

2. Write the advantages and disadvantages of
sexual propagation.

D. Match the Columns

A B

1. Cutting (a) Coleus

2. Seed (b) Leaf cutting

3. Softwood cutting (c) Detached vegetative

part of plant
4. Bryophyllum (d) Sexual propagation

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 SESSION 2: PLANT PROPAGATION BY LAYERING
Layering
It is an attached method of propagation. In this
method, roots are allowed to develop on the covered
portion of the stem while still being attached to the
mother plant. After the emergence and development of
the roots, this portion is separated from the mother
plant and allowed to grow as a new plant on its own
root stem. Such root stem is known as ‘layer’.
Types of layering
(i) Simple layering
(ii) Compound or serpentine layering
(iii) Trench layering
(iv) Mound layering or stooling
(v) Air layering
Simple layering
In simple layering, a partial tongue-like cut is given on
a branch. The branch is then bent to the ground and
the treated portion is covered with soil, keeping the
top or terminal portion exposed. The layered branches
produce roots in weeks and are ready for transplanting in
a nursery after detaching them carefully. Examples
are jasmine,
ixora, clerodendron, pyrostegia, etc.
Procedure
Select one-year old healthy, flexible,
(a) Selected branch long un-branched shoot near the ground
level. Remove leaves of the selected
shoot, retaining some at the top. The
retained leaves prepare food through
photosynthesis. Bend down the shoot so
that some part of it touches the ground.
(b) Slanting cut given on branch
At that portion, generally, 15−30 cm away
from the terminal end, a sharp slanting
inward cut of 2−3 cm is given. A small
matchstick is inserted in the cut to keep
the slit open. Bend down the branch and
(c) Cut portion covered with soil cover the cut part with soil. Keep some
weight or stone over the buried part so

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 Fig. 3.6 (a–c): Simple that it is not pulled upward, and remains
layering

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PLANT PROPAGATION
in the same position. A stake is fixed near the layered
branch and the branch operated upon is tied with it.
Water the layered portion regularly. After 3−4 weeks,
rooting starts at the operated portion and this can be
indicated by sprouting buds on the shoot. After this,
the layer is separated from the mother plant and planted
in a new place.
Compound or serpentine layering
Compound layering is similar to simple layering, except
the branches are alternately covered and exposed
along their length. The branches must
be longer so that they can be layered at
several places. This method is followed
in plants like bougainvillea, jasmine,
clematis, muscadine grape and wisteria.
(a) Circular cut or girdling on branch
Procedure
One-year old healthy and flexible long
shoot near the ground is selected for
compound layering. The selected stem is
placed in soil in a way that the nodes at
(b) Cut portion covered with soil
certain distance are covered under the
soil and the intermediate internodes are
exposed. Remove leaves from the selected
branch but retain few leaves at the top.
Give two circular cut around the bark
about 2.5−4 cm wide. Remove the bark of (c) Branch prepared for planting

the operated portion (girdling). Apply Fig. 3.7 (a–c): Compound or serpentine layering

rooting hormone
to the girdled portion and cover it with soil. The same
branch is operated at 3−4 places at certain distance in
the same way. The growing shoots, which emerge from
the covered portion of the branch, are separated from the
mother plant for planting in a nursery.
Trench layering
Trench layering is primarily used in fruit plants.
Covering the shoots with soil results in etiolation, so it
is also known as ‘etiolation layering’. New shoots arise
from the length of the burried branches. After rooting,
individual shoots are separated from the mother plant.
This method is followed in apple, cherry, pear, jasmine

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
and rhododendron.

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 Fig. 3.8: Trench layering

Procedure
One-year old healthy and flexible long shoot near the
ground is selected. The selected stem is placed in a
shallow trench in a way that the middle portion of it is
buried. Remove leaves from the branch but retain few
leaves at the top. Cover the whole branch with moist soil
5–10 cm deep. The terminal portion is left exposed to
manufacture food and hormones for the developing
plants. After some weeks, shoots arise from the nodes,
which are covered by soil. The covering of the shoots
with soil results in etiolation of the shoots and helps in
rooting. Individual shoots with roots (layers) are
separated from the mother plant and planted in a
nursery.
Mound layering or stooling
This method is followed in plants whose branches are
firm and difficult to bend. The selected plant must be at
dormant stage at the time of layering.
Procedure
Cut back the upper portion of the plant 2.5 cm above
the ground level. After few days, new shoots will emerge.
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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 When the shoots grow to a height of 7−15 cm and

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 become little sturdy, place loose soil around them so
that they are half buried. When the shoots attain a
height of 20−25 cm, again add soil around them so that
they are half buried. Water the heaped soil regularly. It
will take 3−4 months to get the layers. Cut the rooted
layers close to the base from the mother plant and plant
it in a nursery. Examples are apple, guava, currant,
gooseberry, pear, etc.

(a) Mother
plant (b) Top (c) Soil is put (d) Growth of new (e) Rooted layers
removed around the shoots increase are detached
from the stump as new
mother pant shoots emerge
Fig. 3.9 (a – e): Mound layering or stooling

Air layering
It is also known as ‘gootee’. Examples are Ficus
elastica, Callistemon, croton, monstera, citrus fruits,
lychee, philodendron, pomegranate, etc.
Procedure
Select healthy, vigorously growing aerial branch having
pencil-size thickness. The selected branch must be of
the past growing season. Girdle the selected branch up to
2−3.5 cm wide just below the node 15–30 cm back from
the tip of the shoot. A strip of the bark from the girdled
portion is removed. Scrap the girdled portion, which
helps in the removal of phloem tissues and prevents
formation of bark at the girdled portion. Excessive
moisture from sphagnum moss is squeezed out before
placing it over the cut portion. A piece of polyethylene
film is carefully wrapped around the branch so that
the sphagnum moss is completely covered. Both the
ends of the polyethylene film are made airtight by tying
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PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES them with strings. The layer is removed from the parent
plant when roots are observed through the transparent
polyethylene film. It takes 2−3 months for rooting. Rainy
season is the best for air layering.

Practical Exercise
Activity
Demonstrate simple layering.
Material required: Sharp knife, stone pieces or hooks or
pegs, polythene bags, secateurs and matchstick
Procedure
• Select one-year old healthy and flexible
long un-branched shoots near the ground
level.
• At a distance of 15−30 cm back from the tip,
make a sharp slanting inward cut and insert
a matchstick.
• Bend the shoot gently to the ground so that the cut
part can be inserted into the soil.
• Cover the rooting region with soil.
• Keep a stone on the part covered with soil in order to
retain the layer in place.
• Drive a vertical stake to the soil by the side of the
layered branch.
• Tie the branch to the stake with a gunny thread.
• Water the layered portion regularly till rooting starts.
Check Your Progress
A. Fill in the Blanks

1. In layering, a partial tongue-like cut is

given on a branch.
2. Layering is an method of propagation.
3. Vigorously growing branch is used for
air layering.
4. In mound layering, cut back the plant at cm
above the ground level.

B. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Plant propagated through air layering is .

(a) croton (b) gaillardia
(c) jasmine (d) rose
2. Air layering is also known as .
(a) gootee (b) simple layering
(c) compound layering (d) None of the above

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 3. In trench layering, the whole branch buried in soil is NOTES
up to cm deep.
(a) 1−2 (b) 3−4
(c) 5−10 (d) 12−15
4. The same branch is operated at 3−4 places at
certain distance in layering.
(a) trench (b) simple
(c) air (d) compound

C. Subjective Questions
1. Write the procedure of compound layering.
2. Discuss in detail the process of air layering.

D. Match the Columns

A B
1. Air layering (a) Plant must be at
dormant stage
2. Circular removal of bark (b) Apple
3. Mound layering (c) Girdling
4. Trench layering (d) Serpentine layering
5. Compound layering (e) Gootee

SESSION 3: PLANT PROPAGATION BY GRAFTING

Grafting
The method of joining parts of two plants in a manner
that they form a unit and function as one plant is known
as ‘grafting’.

Advantages of grafting
• Plants propagated by grafting are true-to-type,
and bear flowers and fruits early.
• The plants can be multiplied and preserved
by grafting.
• Local variety of older plants can be improved to
superior variety by top working.
• Wounded or damaged tree trunks can be repaired
by special grafting methods.
• Rootstock has an influence on resistance, vigour
and quality of grafted plants.

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES • Certain rootstocks, which are tolerant to saline
and alkaline soils and other adverse conditions,
can be used for grafting.

Disadvantages of grafting
• It requires specialised skill.
• It is an expensive method of propagation.
• New varieties cannot be developed by grafting.
• Plants produced through grafting are short lived
as compared to plants propagated by seeds.
• When contaminated tools or propagation material
are used in grafting, newly propagated plants may
also get infected.

Rootstock
The part of the graft that provides root system to the
grafted plant is known as ‘rootstock’. It is, normally,
raised by seeds in the seedbed, and then, transplanted
in the nursery bed for budding and grafting.
Rootstocks are also raised in pots and polythene bags.

Characteristics of rootstock
• Adaptable to local climatic conditions
• Resistant to adverse climatic and soil conditions
• Resistant or tolerant to pests and diseases
• Propagates easily
• Compatible with scion
• Promotes early healing and formation of
cambium layer

Raising of rootstock
Generally, rootstocks are raised by seeds (mango and
citrus fruits), or sometimes, by cuttings (rose). Seeds
are sown or cuttings are planted on raised beds or in
poly bags for raising rootstocks. After the germination
of seeds or rootings of cuttings, the seedling rootstocks
are transplanted in poly bags or nursery beds. Once they
reach the stage of growth, they are used as rootstocks
for grafting or budding. Sometimes, the rootstocks are
not of the same species, e.g., for grapes (Vitis vinifera),
the rootstock used is a related species Vitis berlandieri.
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Scion NOTES
The upper portion of graft combination taken from the
desired plant to be multiplied is known as ‘scion’.
Characteristics of scion
• Scion wood must be of the previous season but
not from more than one-year old plant.
• Flowering shoots or shoots from where the
harvesting is recently done must be avoided.
• Healthy and well-developed vegetative buds must
be selected.
• The scion or bud sticks must be selected from
known performing orchard trees.

Selection of scion
• The mother plant must be vigorous, high
yielding, true-to-type and free from undesirable
bud mutation and viral diseases.
• It is advisable to collect scion from grown-up trees.
• It must be preconditioned by defoliating the
branch before it is used for budding or grafting.
Defoliating helps the buds to swell.

Methods of grafting
Grafting methods can be grouped into the following.

Scion attached method

In this method, the scion shoot is not detached from
the mother plant until the union takes place. After the
successful union of the scion and rootstock, the scion
is separated in gradual cut from the mother plant. For
making the grafting handy, the rootstock is grown in a
container or polythene bag. This method is followed in
plants, in which successful graft unions are difficult to
obtain. ‘Approach grafting’ is a type of scion attached
method. It is classified into two types.
• Sliced approach grafting
• Tongue grafting
Approach grafting
Approach grafting is also known as ‘inarching’.
The main feature of approach grafting is that two

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 independent self-sustaining plants are grafted together.
After the successful union of the graft, the scion plant
is detached below the graft union from the mother plant
and the top of the rootstock plant is removed above
the graft. This method is useful for plants, in which
successful graft unions are difficult to obtain. This
method is, usually, performed for plants growing in a
container, as well as, big trees. In the latter case, the
rootstock seedling is brought near the scion branch by
erecting a platform.
Selection of grafting material
Approach grafting can be done in two ways, and
accordingly, their names are given as ‘sliced approach
grafting’ and ‘tongue approach grafting’. In both
the methods, the success of grafting depends on the
thickness of the scion and
rootstock. Both must be
compatible and
comfortable at the union.
The rootstock and scion
must be of almost the
same thickness. Select the
scion branch on the
mother plant of desired
characteristics.
c Sliced approach grafting
d
Procedure
• Bring the selected
a rootstock and scion
b close together.
• Find out the most
comfortable point of
(a) Scion contact.
(b) Rootstock • At the point of contact,
(c) Point of stock to cut a thin slice of wood
(d) Point of scion to cut
along with a 2.5 to
5-cm long bark from
the rootstock and the
Fig. 3.10: Approach grafting (inarching)
scion is removed.
• The operated size must be uniform on both the
stems of the rootstock and the scion.
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 68
68

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PLANT PROPAGATION
 • The cut surfaces are then brought together so that
they cover each other completely by overlapping.
Press them firmly together and tie them with a
waxed string or polythene tape, so that water does
not enter.
• After successful union, head back the rootstock
above the union and cut the scion below the
union, e.g., mango, guava, sapota, etc.

Tongue grafting
This method differs from the former as cuts are given on
both the scion and rootstock.

(a) Root portion (d) Graft bound

(b) Prepared portion (c) Fitted graft
with tape
Fig. 3.11 (a−d): Tongue grafting

Procedure
• Bring the selected rootstock and scion close
together.
• Find out the most comfortable point of contact.
• Remove a slice of wood along with a 2.5 to 5-cm
long bark from the rootstock and scion.

GARDENER – CLASS XI
 NOTES • A second slanting partial cut downward on the
stock and upward on the scion is made, producing
a thin tongue-like structure of the same size on
the stem of the stock and the scion.
• Insert the scion in the stock so that these tongue
cuts interlock.
• All operated portions must be in contact with
each other.
• Tie the operated portions.
Scion detached method
This method is a more popular method of grafting and
comparatively easier to perform. Besides, the rate of
success of plant propagation is more in this case. In
this method, the scion is first detached from the mother
plant, and then, inserted or tied on the rootstock. The
types of scion detached method are:
• Veneer grafting
• Side grafting
• Wedge or cleft grafting
• Stone or epicotyl grafting
• Whip or splice grafting
• Bark grafting
Veneer grafting
It is a simple and economical method of grafting. It the most
ideal method for establishing in situ orchards and top
working of old unproductive orchards. The best time
in north India for veneer grafting is March−April and
July−August. Mango, cashew and peach are
commercially propagated by this technique. Veneer
grafting differs from side grafting. In this, the vertical flap
of the stock is completely removed and a slanting cut is
given on one side of the scion.
Procedure
• A shallow 3 to 5-cm long downward cut is made
on the selected rootstock.
• At the base of the first cut, a short inward and
downward cut is made that intersects the first
cut.
• In between both the cuts, remove the piece of
wood along with the bark by making a small
notch in the rootstock.
70 71
7
PLANT
70 PROPAGATION
 • The scion is operated with a matching long cut
on one side and a short cut on the opposite side
is given at the base.
• Insert the scion and fix it in the rootstock. Care
must be taken to ensure that the cambium layer
matches at least one side of the cut surface.
• Wrap and tie the scion and rootstock firmly.
• Cut back the rootstock above the union after
successful union.
• This method is used for grafting conifers,
deciduous trees and shrubs.

(a) Prepared (b) Prepared (c) The scion is (d) Wrapped scoin (e) Prepared
stock scion inserted in the stock and stock plant
Fig. 3.12 (a–e): Veneer grafting

Side grafting
In this method, the operated scion is inserted
into the side of the established rootstock,
which has more girth than the scion,
e.g., hibiscus.
Selection of material
• A rootstock of 2.5 cm diameter is selected.
• The scion needs to have 3–5 buds and
must be about 7.5 cm long.
• The scion must be comparatively
(a) (b)
thinner than the rootstock.
Procedure Fig. 3.13 (a–b): Side grafting

• Use a sharp knife for cutting the scion.

• On the stem of the rootstock, a slanting
downward and inward cut of about 2.5–5 cm
deep is made.
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 NOTES • A wedge of the same size (2.5−5 cm) of the scion is
prepared by two slanting cuts oppositely towards
the base.
• The scion is then inserted into the operated rootstock.
• Pour wax and make the operated portion waterproof.
• Wrap and tie the grafted portion to keep it intact.
• After the graft is complete, cut the stock above
the union.
Cleft grafting
It is comparatively a simple and an easy method of
grafting, which is widely used in fruit trees, e.g.,
mango, jackfruit, bael, amla, etc.
Selection of material
• The scion must be a terminal shoot with 3–5 buds.
• It must be of the current season and in
active growth.
• The scion shoot is defoliated about two weeks
ahead of being separated from the mother plant.
• This will help accumulate food in the shoots. As
a result, the buds on the shoots become swollen.
• As compared to the rootstock, the thickness
(diameter) of the scion may be the same or less.

Procedure
• The rootstocks of required plant species are raised
in poly bags.
• The seedling of the suitable rootstock, which is
4 to 5–month old is selected.
• Head back the rootstock.
• A sharp vertical downward cut of 3−5 cm is made
in the centre of the stem.
• Two slanting cuts of the same length (3–5 cm) as
in the rootstock are given on the sides towards the
base on the scion shoot.
• This will give a wedge-shaped appearance to the
scion stick.
• The wedge-shaped scion is inserted in the split of
the rootstock.
• Insert the scion in a way that it matches the
cambium layer at least on one side with the
72
stock.
72 71
7
PLANT PROPAGATION
 • Tie the grafted portion firmly in position with a
polythene tape.
• After successful union, the terminal buds of the
scion begin to sprout.
• Loosen or remove the polythene tape to allow the
shoot to grow normally.
• It is better to stake the newly grafted plant.

(e)
(b) The split stock (c) Wrapped
(a) (d) Scion inserted (f)
held open with scion and
Selected the help of Prepared rootstock Prepared
rootstock a chisel in the rootstock plant

Fig. 3.14 (a–f): Cleft grafting

Stone or epicotyl grafting

This method is commonly adopted for the rapid
multiplication of mango plants. In this method, stones
(seeds) are sown in polythene bags or moist sand bed
and covered with 5 to 7-cm layer of leaf mould for
germination. When the seedlings are about 15 days old,
they are taken out and grafted indoor.
Selection of material
• Young mango seedlings with copper coloured
leaves (15 days old) are used as rootstocks.
• Young (current season growth) 3 to 4-month old
shoot with pencil thickness is selected as the
scion on the mother plant.
• The scion must have 4−5 terminal (apical) buds.
• Defoliate the selected shoot 15 days prior to grafting.
• Defoliation makes the buds swollen and induces
early sprouting.

GARDENER – CLASS XI
 NOTES Procedure
• A wedge in the scion is made at the base by
giving two slanting cuts of 5 cm.
• Head back the stock by giving a straight
horizontal cut.
• From the centre of the stock, give a 5-cm long
vertical cut downward.
• Insert the wedge-shaped scion in the split portion of
the stock so that the operated portion is in full
contact.
• Tie the graft firmly with a polythene strip. The
successful graft sprouts and new shoots emerge.
Such grafts are ready for planting within one year,
e.g., mango.

Whip or splice grafting

It is the oldest method of grafting. This method is used in
fruit trees like apple, pear, walnut, etc.
Selection of material
Select one-year old rootstock. The rootstock and scion
must be of uniform thickness. The scion must be
10 to 15 cm long having 4–5 swollen buds. The rootstock
must be in active growth phase and sap-flowing
condition. It is mostly performed in early spring season.
Procedure
• Head back the rootstock terminally.
• Give a slanting cut of 2.5−5 cm downwards from
the top.
• Operate similarly but reversely on the scion.
• On the scion, a slanting cut of the same size is
given from the base upward.
• The cuts on both the stock and scion need to
be smooth.
• Put the operated portions on each other so that
they form a single stem.
• Wrap the union with a polythene tape or a special
nursery tape.
• The tape must be removed after the graft has
healed, else the growth is restricted around the
union, and such plants break due to the force
of wind.
74 73
PLANT PROPAGATION
74
 Bark grafting
A plant graft made by slitting the bark of the stock and
inserting the scion beneath it is called ‘bark grafting’. It
is commonly used in top working.
Selection of material
• The bark of the rootstock must be in sap-flowing
condition.
• The scion must be in dormant condition.
• The scion must be 10–13 cm long and have 3−5
dormant buds.

(a) (b) (c) (d)

Remove the Flap of the bark Prepared Insert the scion
bark opened to scion into the rootstock
receive scion

Fig. 3.15 (a–d): Bark grafting

Procedure
First method
• A vertical cut of 3−5 cm is made in the bark of the
stub of the rootstock.
• To prepare wedge shape of the scion, a 3 to 5-cm
long cut is made at the end of the scion, followed
by another cut on the opposite side of the first cut.
• Slightly lift the bark of the rootstock of the cut portion.
• Insert the wedge-shaped scion into the rootstock
and cover it with the bark of the rootstock.
• After grafting, the exposed cut surfaces of the
stub and scion are covered with wax.
• Several scions may be used for grafting on a single
stock, according to the width of the stub.
75
PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES Second method
• Two cuts of 5 cm are made on the bark of the
stub and the bark is lifted.
• At the base of the scion, a 5-cm long slanting cut
is given.
• On the opposite side of the first cut, a slanting cut
of 1.5 cm is made so as to form a wedge.
• The operated scion is inserted in the loose bark of
the rootstock.
• Care must be taken to have a long cut of the scion
towards the wood of stem and wedge at the base.
• After grafting, the exposed portion must be waxed.

Grafting for special purposes

Grafting for special purposes is done for quality
improvement and repair. Grafting is done on established
plants to improve their quality, e.g., side grafting and
top working. It is also done to rejuvenate old or injured
trees, for example bridge grafting.

Bridge grafting
This method is used for repairing wounds in trees made
by implements, frost, rodents or diseases. In this
grafting, the bark of a tree is damaged, resulting into
girdling. A completely girdled tree will die. Bridge
grafting repairs girdling.
Selection of material
• The rootstock must be in sap-flowing condition.
• The scion comprises one-year old dormant shoots
of 6−12 mm in diameter.
• The number of scion sticks depends upon the size
of the wound to be repaired.
• The selected scion may be of the same or a
compatible plant.
Procedure
• Trim the wounded area by removing the dead bark.
• The cuts are made in the bark at the top and
bottom of the wound at 5 to 7.5 cm distance.
• Long slanting cuts are given on the scion at the
top, as well as, bottom.
76
76
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 • Both the cuts must be on the same side.
• A sharp wedge of scion is made by an additional
short, slanting cut opposite to the first.
• Prepare the required number of scions in the
same way.
• Buds on the scion(s) are removed.
• The operated portion
of the scion is
inserted in each slot
of the bark on the
rootstock in a way
that the wedge
remains under the
flap of the bark at
each end. (a) (b) (c) (d)
• The scions must be Remove the Prepared Prepared Insert the
put in upright position. bark from the rootstock scion scion into
rootstock the prepared
The graft unions at top rootstock
to bottom are waxed. Fig. 3.16 (a–d): Bridge grafting

Top working
Top working is a method of grafting by which inferior or
older plants are rejuvenated into superior or new ones.
Top working is, generally, adopted in plants with long
leaves. It is suitable for plants like apple, avocado, citrus
fruits and vegetable, mango and shrubs or vines. Top
working can be done by top grafting or top budding. For
top working, cleft, whip, wedge or side grafting methods
can be used, according to the suitability of a plant. Top
working is, usually, done during spring.
Selection of material
• Prepare the rootstock and scion by any of the
above suitable method.
• Usually, 3–5 scaffold branches must be used for
rejuvenation in top working.
• In frame working, the secondary scaffold
branches are used for grafting.
• The branches to be worked with must be
well-distributed around the trunk.
• The branches must be 3−10 cm in thickness.
• Scion sticks of the desired cultivar with 7−10
dormant buds are selected.
75
77
PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES Precautions
• Observe the progress of the branches of a top
worked tree every 3−5 days.
• Cracks developed in the wax coating must be
re-waxed.
• Whitewash the trunk to avoid sunburn.
• The scion must also be protected from the Sun by
keeping the graft in shade.
• New shoots developing from scions are tied to
stakes to avoid breaking off due to winds.
• New growth on older branches and trunk must
be removed from time-to-time.
• The top worked trees must be regularly irrigated
and manured.

Practical Exercises
Activity 1
Demonstrate veneer grafting.
Material required: Rootstock and scion of mango plant,
grafting knife and grafting tape
Procedure
• Select a one-year old healthy rootstock of a mango
plant.
• Select the scion of desired variety having 3–5 buds
and about 7.5 cm in length.
• Make 2.5 to 5-cm long shallow cut on the rootstock
downwards, and at the base of the first cut, a short
inward cut is made. Then, remove the bark and wood.
• Make a cut of the same size on the scion and a very
short cut at the base of the scion opposite to the
long cut.
• Insert the scion and fix it into the stock.
• Wrap and tie the grafted portion with a polythene
tape to keep the union intact.
• After the graft is completed, cut the stock above
the union.
Activity 2
Demonstrate cleft grafting.
Material required: Rootstock, scion, grafting knife,
grafting tape, etc.
Selection of material
• The scion must be taken from the terminal shoot of
current season growth with 3–5 buds.

78
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 • The scion shoot is defoliated about two weeks ahead NOTES
of separation from the mother plant.
Procedure
• Raise the rootstock of the required plant in a
poly bag.
• Select 4 to 5-month old suitable rootstock and cut
the terminal portion (head back).
• A sharp vertical straight downward cut of 3–5 cm is
given at the centre of the stem.
• Two slanting cuts of the same length (3−5 cm), as
in the rootstock, are given on the scion shoot at the
opposite side towards the base.
• Insert the scion in a way that it matches the
cambium layer at least on one side with the stock.
• Tie the grafted portion firmly with a polythene tape.
• After successful union, the terminal buds of the
scion begin to sprout.
• Loosen or remove the polythene tape to allow the
shoot to grow normally.
• Stake the newly grafted plant.

Check Your Progress

A. Fill in the Blanks

1. Rooted plant on which scion is grafted is called .

2. Desirable plant containing dormant buds is called
.
3. Joining parts of two plants together so as to enable them
to function as one plant is known as .
4. In grafting, two independent self-sustaining
plants are grafted together.
5. In grafting, two cuts are given on both the
scion and rootstock.

B. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Veneer grafting is appropriate for .

(a) mango (b) guava
(c) lemon (d) pomegranate
2. Older and inferior plant can be rejuvenated through
.
(a) hardwood cutting (b) approach grafting
(c) veneer grafting (d) top working

79
PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES 3. Rootstock and scion are required in .
(a) layering (b) grafting
(c) cutting (d) gootee
4. Epicotyl grafting is also called
grafting.
(a) stone (b) cleft
(c) wedge (d) whip grafting
5. Top working can be done by .
(a) top grafting (b) stone grafting
(c) veneer grafting (d) tongue grafting

C. Subjective Questions

1. Describe cleft grafting.

2. How does the union of rootstock and scion take place?
3. What is top working?
4. What is approach grafting?
5. Enlist the characteristics of rootstock.
6. Write the procedure of stone grafting.

D. Match the Columns

A B

1. Scion detached method (a) Approach grafting

2. Epicotyl grafting (b) Raised by seeds

3. Scion attached method (c) Bark grafting

4. Rootstock (d) Mango

SESSION 4: PLANT PROPAGATION BY BUDDING

Budding
Budding is the process of inserting a single mature
scion bud into the stem (rootstock) in a way that
results into a union and continues to grow as a new
plant. It is also a type of grafting.

Types of budding
There are many methods or techniques of inserting
bud into the rootstock. Some of the common methods
are as follows.
80
80
GARDENER – CLASS XI
T – budding
Since a ‘T’-shaped incision is made for bud insertion
on the rootstock, it is called T – budding. T – budding
is also called ‘shield budding’ as the bud used for
insertion is in the shape of a ‘shield’. It is widely used
for propagating fruit trees and ornamental plants. In
this method, the rootstocks of compatible plants are
raised in beds or poly bags.
One-year old rootstock of a healthy and vigorous
growth is selected. A T-shaped cut is made at a height
of 15−25 cm from the ground level on the rootstock
with the help of a sharp knife. Also, a vertical cut,
extending up to 2.5−3.75 cm is given on the bark in
the internodes. At the top of this vertical cut, another
horizontal cut is given in such a way that the two
cuts resemble the shape of ‘T’. Now, the bark of the
cut portion is loosened. The bud from the desirable
plant is selected. The shield-shaped bud along with
the woody chip is removed from the scion stick. The
bud is inserted in the T-shaped cut in the stock. After
the insertion of the bud with the help of a budding
knife, the bud and stock are firmly wrapped with a
polyethylene strip, exposing the bud. The bud sprouts
within a month. Examples are rose, apple, pear,
peach, apricot, cherry, sweet orange, etc.

(d) Bud is (e) Tie the bud

(a) Scion (b) Prepared (c) ‘T’ shape
bud inserted in the with a poly strip (f) Sprouted
cut is made ‘T’ cut in after inserting it scion
on the stock the stock in the ‘T’ cut

Fig. 3.17 (a – f): T – budding or shield budding

81
8
PLANT PROPAGATION
 Patch budding
A rectangular patch of bark, measuring 2.41.5 cm
(length and width), is completely removed from the
internodes of the stock plant. A similar patch of bark
with a healthy bud is removed from the scion bud
stick. This patch is placed on the cut portion of the
stock and wrapped with a polyethylene strip, keeping
the bud exposed. This type of budding is useful for the
propagation of plants having a thick bark. Examples
are amla, mango, jamun, rubber, etc.

(a) Scion (b) Patch of (c) Patch of bark to (d) Patch (e) Patch bud (f) Patch
bark with (g) Sprouted
be removed of bark fitted with bud
bud from the stock wrapped bud scion
removed the stock

Fig. 3.18 (a–g): Patch budding

Ring budding
In this method, a bark of approximately 3−6 cm wide
in ring form is removed from the stock. The same
dimension of bark with a healthy bud is removed from
the scion bud stick and placed on the stalk. After placing
the ring in position, tie it with a polythene strip, keeping
the bud exposed, e.g.,
ber and cherry.
Flute budding
This is a slight
modification of ring
budding. Instead of
removing the complete
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) ring, a narrow portion
Rootstock Ring-shaped Insertion of Wrapping Sprouting of the bark about 1/8 of
preparation bud the bud of the bud of the bud
its circumference is left
Fig. 3.19 (a–e): Ring on the stock. A similar
budding
82
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 portion of the scion
is removed along
with the bud and
is fitted on the cut
portion of the stock.
The bark of the stock
and bud are tied with
a polyethylene strip,
exposing the growing
point e.g., ber.
Forkert budding (a) Rootstock (c) Insertion and (d) Completed
cut to fit (b) Scion bud wrapping of bud graft
In forkert method, bud ring the bud
a horizontal cut at
the internodes of the Fig. 3.20 (a–d): Flute budding

selected rootstock is
given at a distance of 20−25 cm above the ground level.
Two vertical cuts from either ends of the horizontal cut,
extending downwards, are taken and a flap of the bark
is pulled out, exposing a rectangular woody portion of
about 2.55 cm on the rootstock. A rectangular piece
of bark of the same size along with a matured bud is
removed from the bud stick with the help of a budding
knife. This piece of bark is then shifted over the exposed

(a) Operated (c) Insertion of (d) Wrapped (e) Emerging

(b) Bud wood bud
stock the bud scion

Fig. 3.21 (a–e): Forkert budding

83
PLANT PROPAGATION
 portion on the rootstock. The flap of the bark is loosened
and tied to its original position, covering the scion bud
fitted inside. After three weeks, the polyethylene strip
is removed and the flap of the bark is pulled out for
observation. If the bud shows sprouting signs, the flap
is removed by giving a horizontal cut on the downside.
Then, the polyethylene strip is wrapped, keeping the
growing point exposed. The bud sprouts within 3 – 5
weeks of budding operation. Examples are cashew nut,
jackfruit, mango, etc.
Chip budding
This method is followed when the bark is thin and cannot
be removed easily. In this method, a piece of thin bark,
along with some
wood piece, is
removed between
two nodes of the
rootstock, and the
same size of chip,
which is similar in
shape and is
collected from the
(a) Operated (b) Insertion (c) Wrapped (d) Emerging
stock of the bud bud bud
scion, is placed on
the rootstock. This
is mostly practised
Fig. 3.22 (a–d): Chip budding
in February−March.
Fruits like apple, grapes and pear can be propagated
through this technique.

Tissue culture
It is a technique for growing plant tissues isolated from
the parent plant in an artificial medium and controlled
environment over a prolonged period under aseptic
conditions. It is used on commercial scale in gerbera,
orchid, banana, carnation, anthurium, etc. It is based on
the phenomenon of ‘totipotency’ of a cell, which denotes
the capacity of a plant cell to regenerate into a full-
fledged plant having different organs.
Callus is produced on explant in vitro due to
wounding and growth substances, either endogenous
or supplied exogenous in the medium. For the collection

84
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 of explants, plant parts, such as stem, root or leaves

83
PLANT PROPAGATION
can be used. After disinfestation, they are induced to NOTES
form ‘callus’. Examples are banana, papaya, gerbera,
carnation, rose, orchid, etc.

Plant propagation by specialised organs

Specialised organs are modified stems or roots,
developing above the ground surface or underground,
which may be used for multiplication of plants. In
horticulture, bulbous ornamentals include bulbs,
corms, tubers, tuberous roots and rhizomes.

Bulb
Bulb is a specialised underground structure having
a flat basal stem and surrounded by fleshy scales,
e.g., onion, tuberose, amaryllis. Structurally, bulbs
are tunicated and non-tunicated. In tunicated
bulbs, the outer layer of scales is converted into dry
membranous covering, which gives protection, e.g.,
onion, tuberose, amaryllus, tulip, etc. Non-tunicated
bulbs do not possess the enveloping dry covering and
are represented by lilium.
Corm
Corm is an underground modified solid or compressed
stem oriented vertically in the side having nodes and
buds, e.g., gladiolus, crocus, etc.
Tuber
It is an underground storage organ having special
swollen modified stem or roots, e.g., root tuber like
dahlia, caladium, dioscorea, Jerusalem artichoke, etc;
and stem tuber like begonia, potato, etc.
Rhizome
A modified stem of some plant growing horizontally
just below the ground surface, e.g., canna, ferns, ginger,
iris, etc.
Runner
It is a modified stalk, which is creeping in nature,
produced in the leaf axil and grows out from the parent
plant. It grows horizontally along the ground, where
roots are produced at the nodes, which can be used

85
PLANT
86 PROPAGATION
84
GARDENER – CLASS XI
 (a) Runner (chlorophytum) (b) Sucker (c) Rhizome (canna)

(d) Corm (gladiolus) (e) Bulb (tuberose) (f) Root tuber (dahlia)

Fig. 3.23 (a–f): Plant propagation by specialised organs

to produce new plants, e.g., doob grass, strawberry,

chlorophytum, etc.
Sucker
It is a special shoot arising from the root or stem
portion of a plant below the ground level, e.g.,
chrysanthemum (stem), Clerodendron splendens
(root suckers), anthurium, etc.
Tuberous root
It refers to a swollen tuberous growth that functions
as a storage organ. Examples are satavar, dahlia,
chlorophytum, etc.

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GARDENER – CLASS XI
 Practical Exercise NOTES
Activity

Demonstrate T– budding.
Material required: Secateurs, budding knife, rose rootstock,
scion and budding tape
Procedure
• Select and prepare a rootstock with the help of
secateurs.
• Make a ‘T’ shape cut with the help of a budding knife.
• Gently open the bark of the rootstock with the help
of a bud opener.
• Prepare the bud with the help of a budding knife.
• Insert a shield bud into the ‘T’ cut.
• Wrap this portion with a polythene strip.

Check Your Progress

A. Fill in the Blanks
1. The art of inserting a scion bud into rootstock is
known as .
2. T–budding is also known as budding.
3. Lilium is propagated by .
4. Dahlia and caladium are propagated by .
5. A slight modification of ring budding is known as
budding.

B. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Chlorophytum is propagated by .
(a) runners (b) suckers
(c) rhizomes (d) tuberous roots
2. T-budding is mostly practised in .
(a) cherry (b) lilium
(c) sweet potato (d) rose
3. In general, the age of a rootstock must be
old.
(a) one-year (b) two years
(c) three years (d) four years
4. Chip budding is applicable when the bark of a
plant is .
(a) thick (b) thin
(c) rough (d) smooth

87
PLANT PROPAGATION
 NOTES 5. Multiplication of a plant in controlled environment
under aseptic condition is known as .
(a) tissue culture (b) protected culture
(c) hydroponic (d) soilless culture

C. Subjective Questions
1. What is budding?
2. Describe the procedure of T-budding

D. Match the Columns

A B

1. Ring budding (a) Doob grass

2. Sucker (b) Tulip
3. Tunicated bulb (c) Lilium
4. Runner (d) Chrysanthemum
5. Non-tunicated bulb (e) Ber

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GARDENER – CLASS XI