Push a Lemonnier by Air Marcotting
Aerial marcottage is a method of plant propagation that allows the growing of new lemon trees from an existing lemon tree branch. It is an effective technique to multiply your collection of lemon trees and get healthy and vigorous plants. Here is a practical guide to make an aerial lemon marcottage.
Materials required:
- Healthy lemon tree
- A sharp knife
- A transparent plastic bag
- A plastic bottle cut in half
- Light and draining substrate (mix of soil and sand)
- Thread or tape
Steps to follow:
1. Choice of branch: Select a healthy and vigorous branch on your lemon tree, preferably a year or more. Make sure it is free of diseases or pests.
2. Preparation of branch: With a clean and well sharpened knife, make an oblique incision of about 2 to 3 cm in length just below a node of leaves. Gently remove the bark to expose the cambium, the living layer under the bark.
3. Root encouragement: Place a small amount of moist substrate around the cut part of the branch. Then wrap this area with clear plastic to maintain moisture. Attach the plastic with string or tape.
4. Creating an enabling environment: To promote root development, place a plastic bottle cut in half on the marcotted branch. This will create a mini-serre to maintain the moisture and heat required for the marcottage process.
5. Expectation and maintenance: It is important to regularly monitor aerial marcottage to ensure that the substrate remains moist. After a few weeks to a few months, roots should begin to form. Once the roots are sufficiently developed, you can cut the branch below the marcottage and replant your new lemon tree in a pot filled with suitable soil.
Thus, by following these simple steps, you can multiply your lemon trees by aerial marcottage and enjoy new healthy and vigorous plants in your garden. Do not hesitate to experiment with this method of propagation to enlarge your collection of lemon trees!