How to propagate Aglaia odorata: Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Gather the necessary materials

Before you begin propagating Aglaia odorata, make sure you have the following materials:

There are two common methods to propagate Aglaia odorata: stem cuttings and air layering. Choose the method that suits you best.

If you choose to propagate through stem cuttings, follow these steps:

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant that is about 4-6 inches long.
Using sharp pruning shears or scissors, make a clean cut just below a leaf node.
Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone (optional) to promote root growth.
Fill a small pot or container with well-draining potting mix.
Make a small hole in the potting mix and insert the cutting, ensuring that at least one leaf node is buried in the soil.
Gently press the soil around the cutting to secure it.
Mist the cutting with water using a misting bottle.
Cover the pot with a plastic bag or plastic wrap to create a humid environment.
Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
Check the cutting regularly and mist it whenever the soil feels dry.
After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots. You can gently tug on it to check for resistance, indicating root growth.
Once the roots are well-established, you can transplant the new Aglaia odorata plant into a larger pot or directly into the garden.

If you choose to propagate through air layering, follow these steps:

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and make a small incision about halfway through the stem, just below a leaf node.
Apply rooting hormone (optional) to the incision to encourage root development.
Wrap the incision with moist sphagnum moss or a damp paper towel.
Cover the moss or towel with plastic wrap and secure it in place with a string or twist tie.
Keep the moss or towel moist by misting it regularly.
After a few weeks, roots should start to form at the incision site.
Once the roots are well-developed, carefully cut below the root ball and remove the air-layered section from the parent plant.
Plant the air-layered section in a small pot or container filled with well-draining potting mix.
Place the pot in a warm and bright location, away from direct sunlight.
Water the plant regularly and mist it to maintain humidity.
Once the new plant is well-established, you can transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the garden.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can successfully propagate Aglaia odorata and enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this lovely plant.