Layering is a gardening method which can be used with plants which easily take root when their stems are in contact with the ground. For example, broad-leaved evergreens such as the Rhododendron are a good choice for this method. Layering involves anchoring the stems of plants into the soil by simply bending them over and burying them. This is most successful when done in the spring or summer. To layer plants with long stems, like vines, simply cover the vine with earth at different points.
To layer trees and woody plants, clear a portion of a branch or stem of its bark, and surround the cut with moist moss, or special plant food made for this purpose. After this area has rooted well, the branch can be cut off and replanted.
Seed propagation is another easy way to grow more annuals. The growing method will depend on the type of seed, as some require planting in frames or pots at first, transferring outdoors only when the plants are larger and the weather is milder. Common plants which are well suited for seed propagation include Hollyhock, Christmas Rose, Columbine, Bleeding Heart, Baby's Breath, Foxglove, Primrose, and Larkspur.
Many annuals and perennials can also be grown by planting seeds in outdoor beds. A few can be sown in the fall, but most grow best when the seeds are sown in the spring, after the last frost. However, one disadvantage of outdoor growing is that you sacrifice control over the conditions under which the seeds will germinate. For best results choose an area with good soil, and add peat moss and compost. Plant the seeds no more than half an inch below the surface. Water the seed bed well.
For instance, when growing outdoors, the two most important factors in their success are soil texture and drainage. A mixture of good soil, coarse sand, and peat moss will help your seeds grow well. The bottom of the bed should be gravel or pieces of organic products like dry brown leaves or old flowerposts. The seeds should be sown evenly to give each seed equal space to grow. As soon as the seeds have been planted, the soil should be lightly tamped down, and it should be watered until dark and moist. If possible, the seed flats should be immersed in water, as this is preferable to overhead watering.
When growing indoors, the seed box should not be allowed to dry out until after the seeds have sprouted. This will occur quickly if the pan is placed in a warm, dark place. However, as soon as germination occurs, seedlings should be exposed to full light.
Budding, a method of grafting, is another method of plant propagation. This is best done in August or early September. First, make a T-shaped cut in the bark of the host plant. Then cut a bud along with the nearest leaf and park of the bark and wood, from the plant you wish to grow. Slip the bud into the cut you have made in the host plant. Using rubber bands or spring, secure the graft. In about two weeks, the bud should have joined with the host. The bud will develop as part of the host plant.