Marcotting, also known as air-layering, is an ancient and highly successful process in which new citrus trees are propagated from existing trees. It is one of the most reliable and economical methods of propagation, and although the process is both time-consuming and labor-intensive, it produces excellent results, with a high success rate. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to marcot a lemon tree.
First, select a branch of the tree that is slightly above eye-level and at least 4 inches in diameter. Wound the branch on all sides by making a circular cut 1/4 inch deep and about 2 inches in diameter using a sharp, clean knife. For best results, it is recommended to make 2 or 3 cuts, one above the other. Once the branch is sufficiently wounded, pour warm water into the cut and allow it to seep in.
Next, firmly attach a small, plastic bag of potting soil around the wounded branch using twine, wire or tape. Ensure that the bag is secured tightly and won’t fall off. Inside the plastic bag, add a small amount of rooting hormone powder and mix it with the potting soil. Make sure to close all bags tightly.
Following that, water the branch and the soil in the plastic bag thoroughly, and monitor it over the next few days to ensure that it remains moist. At this stage, it is important to keep the branch as cool and shaded as possible as this will help to encourage rooting.
As soon as the roots in the plastic bag are visible, it’s time to transfer the marcotted branch to a pot filled with fresh, nutrient-rich soil. Fill it up to 3/4 of its volume with fresh soil, and make sure to keep the bag of roots intact. If possible, the pot should be placed in a shaded area of the garden to allow the tree to acclimatize over time.
Finally, water the newly transplanted tree every few days and ensure that the soil remains moist at all times. After about 2 or 3 weeks, the branch may start to bear leaves and flowers. Even though the lemon tree may still be weak, it can remain in the pot for another 6 to 8 weeks before it needs to be moved to a larger pot.
Choosing The Right Branch
When marcotting a lemon tree, it is important to choose the right branch to start with. This will depend on the size and location of the tree, as well as the age and health of the branches. For best results, choose a mid-size branch that is not too close to the ground or the top of the trees. It should also be in good condition with few visible spots or discoloration.
Choose young and healthy branches from the current season’s growth as they are more likely to develop strong root systems. Old branches typically have weaker root systems and are more prone to failure. Avoid branches that have been exposed to frost or other environmental conditions as these will be less likely to develop roots.
Creating The Wound
Creating the wound is one of the most important steps in the marcotting process. The wound must be created with precision to ensure that the rooting hormone penetrates deeply and reaches the innermost cells of the branch. It is important to use a sharp, clean knife to make the wound as cleanly and evenly as possible.
Make a circular cut around the circumference of the branch at a point slightly above eye-level. The wound should be about 1/4 inch deep and 2 to 3 inches in diameter, but this may vary depending on the size of the branch. If possible, make several cuts above and below the wound to ensure that the rooting hormone penetrates deeply into the stem.
Securing The Plastic Bag
Once the wound has been created, the next step is to secure the plastic bag around the wounded branch. The bag should be tightly secured with twine, wire or tape and it should be thin enough to allow sufficient air circulation, but thick enough to provide enough insulation to promote rooting. Once the bag has been secured, open it and pour a small amount of rooting hormone powder inside, then mix it with the potting soil.
To ensure that the rooting hormone is evenly distributed, mix the soil and rooting powder together with your hands. Be sure to close the plastic bag tightly after adding the rooting hormone to help retain moisture and trap the rooting hormone. Make sure that the plastic bag is secured so that it does not fall off.
Keeping The Brunch Moist
Once the plastic bag has been secured, it is essential to keep the branch and soil moist as this will help to promote rooting. Water the branch and soil daily, or more if the weather is very hot and dry. If possible, try to keep the branch in a shady area as this will help to reduce moisture loss. Be sure to check the branch and soil regularly to make sure they remain moist.
It is also important to monitor the branch closely to ensure that the rooting hormone and soil is distributing evenly throughout the bag. If the rooting hormone appears to be distributed unevenly, mix it up again with your hands. The branch and soil should remain moist for 6 to 8 weeks for the rooting to be successful.
Removing The Plastic Bag
Once the roots in the plastic bag are visible, the branch can be transplanted into a pot with nutrient-rich soil. Carefully remove the plastic bag from the branch without damaging the newly formed roots. Use a shovel or trowel to fill the pot with fresh soil and fill it up to 3/4 of its volume. Make sure to keep the roots of the branch intact while transferring it.
Once the branch is placed in the pot, cover the roots with a thin layer of soil and water thoroughly. Be sure to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. It is important to keep the pot in a shady area and to avoid direct sunlight while the tree is acclimatizing.
Transferring To A Larger Pot
Once the branch has been transplanted, it will take about 6 to 8 weeks for it to become fully established and begin to produce flowers and leaves. During this time, the plant may be weak and fragile, so be sure to handle it with care. After 6 to 8 weeks, the branch can be moved to a larger pot and placed in a sunny spot in the garden.
Before transferring the branch to a larger pot, water the branch and soil thoroughly to help it stay healthy during the process. Once the branch has been moved to the large pot, make sure to water it every few days and add in a balanced fertilizer once a month to ensure the tree gets all the necessary nutrients.
Final Tips
When marcotting a lemon tree, it is important to keep a few key points in mind in order to ensure success. Make sure to keep the branch as cool and shaded as possible, as this will help to encourage rooting. Monitor the branch closely over the next few weeks to ensure that the rooting hormone and soil is consistently distributed. Furthermore, handle the newly transplanted tree carefully and keep it in a shady spot for the first few weeks until it has become fully established.
