Preservation of cuttings of Rhododendron obtusum Planch., R. ponticum L. and R. simsii Planch.

Owing to lack of space or time, cuttings of rhododendrons cannot always be rooted at the moment they are ready for propagation. We investigated how cuttings could be cold stored until the time they are to be rooted. The cuttings can best be preserved at temperatures just above freezing. At higher temperatures the period of successful storage is shortened. The greatest hazard is Botrytis cinerea attack, but this can be prevented by a prophylactic spray with benomyl. More lignified cuttings can be preserved longer than more herbaceous ones. The methods described can be used for storing cuttings of Rhododendron obtusum, ponticum and simsii hybrids.