Propagating Native Plants

The propagation methods that are most appropriate for native plants are: If you need a review on these methods, please see the topic on propagation methods in the previous module.

Most propagation in the horticultural trade is done through cuttings or other vegetative (asexual) reproduction methods because the resulting plants are identical to the stock plant. Therefore there is a wealth of information about cuttings, and much less about growing from seed.

For native plants, propagation from seed is preferred because you get greater genetic diversity as DNA is exchanged in the sexual reproduction process that results in fertile seed. Genetic diversity supports the wild native populations, and can provide a group of plants that are more likely to have some individuals with the characteristics needed to establish and survive in a given setting. However, there are some native species, such as willows and snowberry, that propagate poorly by seed. Also, the timing of collecting for cuttings or division is much more flexible than for seeds. Plants that propagate in the wild by vegetative reproduction, such as perennial grasses, lilies and iris are excellent choices for these techniques.