Propagating Native Plants from Local Germplasm
Horticulture & Turfgrass
William Errickson
Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent
Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Freehold
Abstract
Native plants are increasingly being used in ornamental landscapes throughout the United States due to the ecosystem services they provide, and the reduced inputs required for their production and maintenance. Furthermore, native plants propagated from local germplasm may be best adapted to a specific eco-region’s growing conditions. However, the supply of locally produced native plants remains limited, despite being in high demand. To support this growing segment of the green industry, propagation trials were conducted to begin developing standardized protocols for both vegetative cuttings and seed propagation of locally collected native ornamental plants, with Rutgers Master Gardeners actively participating in the project. Soft and green wood cuttings of 20 different native plant species were collected from various locations in Central New Jersey during the 2023 growing season. The cuttings were dipped into rooting hormone and planted into a well-drained medium. The cuttings were then placed under a misting system to prevent them from drying out. Roots formed in 4 to 12 weeks depending on the species. Once the plants had successfully established a root system, they were potted up into larger containers and removed from the mist tables. The number of plants that successfully rooted for each species was compared to the total amount attempted to determine success rates using this propagation method. Several species, including Viburnum dentatum, Sambucus nigra, Clethra alnifolia, and Cephalanthus occidentalis, were highly successful, and recommendations can be made for their vegetative propagation. Other species had a lower success rate and will require additional development of their protocols before recommendations can be made. In the fall, seeds of native plants were also collected, processed, and sown according to their individual requirements for seed propagation. All propagation methods and success rates were documented and compiled as a resource for growers who may be interested in propagating native plants.
Authors: William Errickson, Timothy Waller
-
William Errickson Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, Rutgers University, New Jersey, 07728
-
Timothy Waller Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, Rutgers University, New Jersey, 08332