Answer to Question 1Answers will vary; examples of plants that are commonly propagated by layering include
wisteria, clematis, grape, Persian lime (Citrus aurantifolia), magnolia, and the rubber
plant.
Answer to Question 2The development of polyethylene film has made air layering a highly successful
procedure. For example, it is used commercially to propagate certain tropical and
subtropical trees and shrubs that are difficult to root by other procedures.
Answer to Question 3As a method of propagation, layering has advantages and disadvantages. Its major
advantage is the degree of success with which some plants will root when layered as
compared with results achieved with other methods. It is also a simple process; in fact,
many plants root naturally by layering. Disadvantages include that it is more time
intensive than many other methods of asexual propagation, because it requires a great
deal of work by hand. Also, fewer plants can be started from each parent plant than with
the use of cuttings.
