What is Propagation?
Propagation is how we make more trees—either from seeds (sexual) or from parts of existing trees (asexual). Different methods work better for different species and purposes.
Propagation Methods
Sexual Propagation (Seeds)
Advantages:
- Genetic diversity
- Disease resistance
- Easy for many species
- Natural method
Disadvantages:
- May not match parent traits
- Longer to fruiting
- Variable quality
Best for: Native reforestation, genetic diversity, species adapted to seed propagation
Asexual Propagation
Cuttings:
- Stem sections root in soil/water
- Clones parent tree
- Example: Higuerón, Poró
Grafting:
- Join scion to rootstock
- Combines best traits
- Example: Mango, Aguacate cultivars
Air Layering:
- Root branch while attached
- Then separate
- Example: Guayabo, Mango
Tissue Culture:
- Laboratory multiplication
- Mass production
- Advanced technique
Costa Rican Examples
Easy from seed:
- Guanacaste, Guayabo, Nance
- High germination rates
- Simple requirements
Better from cuttings:
- Many Ficus species
- Poró, Madero Negro
- Reliable rooting
Require grafting:
- Elite Mango cultivars
- Improved Aguacate
- Specialty fruit trees
Why It Matters
Understanding propagation helps with:
- Reforestation planning
- Fruit tree cultivation
- Maintaining rare species
- Commercial nursery production
- Home gardening success