Sexual Reproduction

Original work from “Applied Technologies” edited and used with permission by Dr. Teri Hamlin

Table of ContentsIntroduction to Plant PropagationSexual Propagation Asexual Propagation

Stem, Leaf, Cuttings Layering Separation & Division Tissue Culture Budding and Grafting

Introduction

What is Plant Propagation?The multiplication of plants by

both sexual and asexual meansRequires a knowledge of plants

and how to manipulate them.Can be considered an art-form.

Sexual Propagation

What is it?The propagation of plants from SEEDSThe most common type of propagationIn order for one to be successful using this

method, one must understand various details about seeds and how they work

What is a seed?A seed is a whole plant in

miniature surrounded by a seed coat.

It is a ripened flower ovule.

Seed Composition

3 parts of a seed:Seed Coat

Endosperm Embryo

(Protects the embryonic plant.)

(Food storage tissue)(The new plant)

Viability & LongevityIf a seed is viable it will germinate and grow

normallyLongevity is how long the seed will remain viableInfluences of viability

species ---woody (5-7 years)

--- succulent (1-3 years) Storage Conditions -- 40-45 degrees F Time

In order for germination to take place:

The seed must be ripe (ripe when it falls off the tree/plant/bush

Dormancy requirement must be met.

Dormancy Requirements

(Seed Coat Dormancy)Overcome by scarification3 methods

- Mechanical treatment

- Hot water treatment

- Sulfuric Acid treatment

photodormancythermodormancy biochemical dormancy

Stratification

Seed must experience:

1. warm, dry period

2. cool, moist period --- 60-90 days at 40-45 degrees F

3. warm moist period

Selection of SeedsID locally grown seedsSelect certified seeds

-have been tested for germination ability and purity.

Choose hybrid seeds for greater vigor

Select primed seeds

Indirect vs. Direct Seedingplants sown

indoorsplants must be

transplantedtomatoes, peppers,

eggplant

seeded directly into permanent growing area

most economical method

corn, melons, beans, beets, peas, etc..