Plant propagation is the process of multiplying the numbers of a
species, perpetuating a species, or maintaining the youthfulness
of a plant. There are two types of propagation, sexual and
asexual. Sexual reproduction is the union of the pollen and egg,
drawing from the genes of two parents to create a new, third
individual. Sexual propagation involves the floral parts of a
plant. Asexual propagation involves taking a part of one parent
plant and causing it to regenerate itself into a new plant.
Genetically it is identical to its one parent. Asexual propagation
involves the vegetative parts of a plant: stems, roots, or leaves.
The advantages of sexual propagation are that it may be cheaper
and quicker than other methods; it may be the only way to obtain
new varieties and hybrid vigor; in certain species, it is the only
viable method for propagation; and it is a way to avoid
transmission of certain diseases. Asexual propagation has
advantages, too. It may be easier and faster in some species; it
may be the only way to perpetuate some cultivars; and it bypasses
the juvenile characteristics of certain species. |