Grapes Part 2 – Propagation
As I alluded in my first post about grapes, I propagated new shoots using fresh cuttings from this years pruning. My best reference for the procedure was Fred from work; he has a lot of experience in propagated vines and is in the process of completing a vineyard of about 80 vines out in Osgoode. But if you don`t have access to a Fred, the following is what I did to propagate my new vines.
While pruning the vines I pile the cuttings so that I can identify their bottoms (closest to the main branch) and tops (the tip of the cutting). I trim each cuttings so that only three buds remain – making the top cut at an angle helps to identify the top. I cut the bottom of the cutting very close or through the bottom bud.
. |
Callusing is Key
To ensure your cuttings will develop roots you have to callus bottom buds. The callus will appear as a bright white, fine, granular growth rimming the cut you made. Roots will spawn from this callus.
Once a number of cuttings were prepared, I soaked them in water overnight with the bottoms submerged. The cuttings were then bundled, wrapped in wet newspaper or paper towel (but not dripping wet) and placed in a dark plastic bag. Heat is required to speed up the callusing and root development – simply place the bag in a place that has a constant temperature >80°F. I placed mine above the television as it gives off a lot of heat -- many website references mentioned the top of the refridgerator. After 2 to 3 weeks, the bottom buds will begin to callus -- some will have already spawned roots. Because I was impatient I did not wait for all the cuttings to spawn roots; I planted each cutting in a container with one (sometimes two) buds above the soil level being careful not to damage the buds or roots.
I used black pails (with holes drilled in the bottom for gentle bottom watering) and a mixture of potting and garden soil. I placed about 6 cuttings in each pail. As long as they are placed in a warm spot (south facing window), it didn't take long for them to sprout leaves. I`ll plant these babies towards the end of May when all chance of frost is gone.
Mike
No comments:
Post a Comment