PROPAGATION OF HORTICULTURAL PLANTS

At the end of this course, students are expected to have a thorough understanding of the principles and practices involved in the propagation of a range of tropical horticultural plants, including fruit trees.

Rationale - The ultimate aim of horticulture is to produce more plants, and this is accomplished by propagation. Acquisition of knowledge and skills in this area is therefore the foundation of this discipline. Additionally, propagation lends itself to a variety of employment and business opportunities in the horticulture sector.

COURSE SYLLABUS

Module 1 – Propagation Basics

Aim: To introduce the various propagation methods in common usage in the horticultural industry; the applicable physiological principles; as well as the impinging cultural and environmental factors.

Module 2 – Propagating Plants from Seeds

Aim: To explore the main principles and practices associated with propagating plants from seed.

Module 3 – Propagating Plants from Cuttings

Aim: To explore the practices involved in propagating horticultural plants from cuttings.

Module 4 – Divisions and Layering

Aim: To present the techniques and optimal conditions for propagating plants by divisions and layering.

Module 5 – Budding and Grafting

Aim: To expose students to the principles and practices involved in propagating plants by budding and grafting.