What is layering as a propagation method?

• A. Providing rooting opportunity to a stem while still attached to the parent plant, then separating.
• B. Propagation by seed.
• C. Grafting a shoot onto a rootstock.
• D. Removing a stem from the parent plant after roots have formed and planting it independently.

Answer: (D)

Layering is a propagation method where you encourage a stem to form roots while it remains attached to the parent plant. This is done by bending a section of stem into the soil (or keeping it in contact with soil) so a part of it can root, all while still connected to the parent plant. Once roots are established, the new plant is severed and transplanted as a separate individual. This description best captures layering because it emphasizes forming roots while the stem is still attached and then separating it. Propagation by seed involves growing from seeds, which is a different method. Grafting attaches a shoot to a rootstock, another distinct technique. Simply removing a stem after roots have formed and planting it independently omits the crucial step of rooting while still connected, which is central to layering.