Propagation of Plants by Root Cuttings: II. Seasonal Fluctuation of Capacity to Regenerate from Roots

Some species regenerate readily from root cuttings at any time of year, whereas cuttings of other species show a well-marked seasonal fluctuation in capacity to grow. In the latter a high proportion of successes is possible only if cuttings are taken in the “ on ” season. In the “ off ” season for raspberry, not only do root cuttings fail but whole root systems, severed and left undisturbed in situ, also die. The regenerative capacity of (a) root cuttings, and (b) severed roots left in situ, has a bearing on the degree of control, which can be obtained by tillage, of weed species which are able to regenerate from roots left in the ground.