FFA Floriculture Practice Test

Which method is commonly used to propagate plants using leaf cuttings?

1. Grafting

2. Division

3. Layering

4. Soil propagation

The correct answer is: Layering

The method commonly used to propagate plants using leaf cuttings is layering. Layering involves rooting a stem or branch while it is still attached to the parent plant. For leaf cuttings specifically, the technique may involve bending a leaf's petiole or a leaf section down to the soil, covering part of it with soil to encourage root formation. This method is effective for certain species, as it allows the cutting to draw nutrients and moisture from the parent plant while creating roots. Grafting, division, and soil propagation serve different purposes in plant propagation. Grafting is a method involving the joining of two plant sections so they grow as one, typically used for woody plants. Division involves separating a plant into multiple pieces, each capable of growing into a new plant, which is often used with perennials. Soil propagation generally refers to the process of growing plants from seeds or cuttings directly in soil, but it is not a specific technique limited to leaf cuttings. Layering specifically caters to root formation from a leaf or stem setup, making it the accurate choice.