I would like to propagate some Japanese maples, and most books indicate that
grafting is the best technique. However, I do not know where to get
rootstock from, or how to make my own rootstock from the plants I already
have. Can anyone help?
Karen

"Karen" wrote in message
...
I would like to propagate some Japanese maples, and most books indicate
that
grafting is the best technique. However, I do not know where to get
rootstock from, or how to make my own rootstock from the plants I already
have. Can anyone help?
Karen

You'll need to find out which stocks are going to be compatible with the
plants you want to propagate. If by Japanese Maples you mean Acer palmatum -
seed grown A. palmatum will be OK with any A. palmatum clones you want to
increase. You only need to graft if you want to clone specific varieties or
forms. If you want to propagate species then seed is OK.
Likewise you will need to grow or buy seedlings of any species whose
varieties or clones you want to propagate. A specialist may be able to tell
you of cases where a different species is a sufficiently close relative to
be compatible.
You could also try air layering any plants you want to increase.
If you could get this from your library it will give you all you need to
know (it isn't just Acers it is a huge 'propagator's bible'):-
Hartmann & Kester - 'Plant Propagation Principles & Practice' Prentice Hall
Nov 2001 ISBN: 0136792359

Rod