4.Methods of Propagation from Seed

Question 1

Describe key considerations when using fine seed with named example

Answer 1

• Begonia semperflorens
• Must be treated with care
• Use a specially prepared seed compost if grit/perlite is used ensure top layer is compost only
• Sew seeds thinly
• Cover with thin layer of fine grit or fermiculture
• Water pot with upturned fine rose
• Label
• Cover with plastic bag or glass sheet.
• Place in temperature of 18-21 and out of direct sunlight

Question 2

Describe key considerations when using medium seed with named example

Answer 2

• Lactuca salvia (Lettuce)
• Use a specially prepared seed compost which has 50% grit/perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage
• Sow thinly
• Cover the seed with thin layer of compost or vermiculite - ensure no lumps
• Water with rose, don’t overwater.
• Label
• Cover with plastic bag or glass sheet.
• Place in temperature of 18-21 and out of direct sunlight.

Question 3

Describe key considerations when using large seed in container and example name

Answer 3

• Phaseolus vulgaris
• Use a specially prepared seed compost which has 50% grit/perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage
• Insert 2-3 seeds into soil to depth advised on seed packet (approx 1cm down)
• Firm compost around the seed and cover to depth the size of seed
• If long time to germinate cover with grit to prevent weeds
• Label
• Cover with plastic bag or glass sheet.
• Place in temperature of 18-21 and out of direct sunlight.

Question 4

Aftercare of container grown seeds

Answer 4

• Do not allow compost to dry out
• When seedlings emerge remove lid or bag and allow maximum light without direct sunlight

Question 5

Aftercare of ground sewn seeds

Answer 5

• Needs less attention than container grown plants
• Weeding is important - as they can smother seedlings
• Protect from predators
• Watering is best put off, occasional but generous to encourage roots to go deeper
• E.g Peas, can be sewn in early spring but need protection from birds. they will also need some support/something to climb up

Question 6

Describe process of pricking out

Answer 6

• The removal of seedlings from seed tray into larger pot or ground
• Gently remove seedling, never hold on the stem but use leaf
• Carefully break up root mass
• Re-pot - consider size needed for developing plant, fast growing need bigger pot
• Water with fine rose
• Shade from sun for a few days and avoid exposing to frost
• Check moisture regularly
• Grown in greenhouse, cold frame or windowsill to gradually acclimatise /harden off

Question 7

Describe ground preparation for sowing outside

Answer 7

• Prepare a stale seed bed (no weeds/perennial roots) by hoeing or use of weed killers such as glyphosate 3-4 weeks in advance
• Addition of organic matter such as well rotted farmyard manure
• Prepare a good tilth no more than 3mm crumb structure by Raking to break up soil
• Level and firm with back of the rake
• Water ground and allow to drain
• Leave soil to consolidate before sowing
• e.g carrot

Question 8

Describe station sowing

Answer 8

• Useful in plants with low levels of germination
• 3-5 seeds grown in one location to increase chances of survival
• Strongest are kept and weak plants thinned out
• e.g Parsnip

Question 9

Describe sowing in drills

Answer 9

• V profile trench is dug
• Filled with water which is soaked into soil
• Seeds are spread along the trench
• Top soil added to protect

Question 10

Describe broadcast sowing

Answer 10

• Seeds are scattered over a wide area
• Even distribution is key (should only be done on a day with little wind)
• Snake in on direction then back across the other
• Layer of soil raked over the top
• E.g Lawns

Question 11

Describe propagation of ferns by spores

Answer 11

• In summer examine back of fronds to see sporangia (dust type spores)
• Cut off a frond and lay on a piece of paper in a warm dry place (spores will shed looking like brown dust)
• Sterilise a pot of seed compost by pouring boiling water over or putting in microwave - Allow to cool
• Sow spores thinly over surface of pot and cover with cling film or heated propagator.
• Mist spray regularly with cool boiled water
• Remove film when moss like Prothali appear.
• Lift small pieces of moss into new pots of sterile seed compost.
• Spray with cooled boiled water
• Cover again and wait for plantlets to appear spraying daily with Luke warm water
• Grow in shade