Vegetative regeneration by layering inCalluna Vulgaris(L.) Hull

Summary The influence of various media on the production of adventitious roots in the stems of degenerate Calluna vulgaris was investigated. An experimental study in a wet heathland, and a survey of layering occurrence in a dry heathland, were carried out in North East Scotland. In the wet heath, adventitious root production was more prof use in peat and soil, and less so in Hypnum jutlandicum and sterile soil. In the dry heath, layering was observed more commonly in moss communities containing Hylocomium splendens and in bare soil, than would be expected if there were no preference. It is suggested that the presence of micro-organisms in the soil stimulates root extension once roots occur. The greater occurrence of layering in Hylocomium communities may be a result of the fast upward growth of this moss covering the lower parts of ramets and causing separation of branches. Scarification of the bark appears to stimulate root initiation. Root production varies between individual plants however, for reasons which are not immediately apparent.