What are the difference between Grafted and Rooted plumeria
Grafted and rooted plumeria are two different methods of propagation, each with its own advantages and characteristics. Here's a detailed comparison to help you understand the differences:
Grafted Plumeria:
Definition: Grafting involves joining a piece of a mature plumeria (known as a scion) onto another plumeria plant's root system (known as the rootstock).
Advantages:
- Faster Blooming: Grafted plumeria often bloom faster because the scion is taken from a mature, blooming plant.
- True to Type: Grafting ensures that the new plant will have the exact characteristics of the parent plant, including flower color, fragrance, and growth habit.
- Disease Resistance: By choosing a disease-resistant rootstock, you can increase the new plant's resistance to certain diseases.
- Adaptation to Soil Conditions: The rootstock can be selected for its ability to thrive in specific soil conditions, allowing the scion to grow in otherwise challenging environments.
Disadvantages:
- Skill Required: Grafting requires some skill and experience to perform successfully.
- Potential Incompatibility: The scion and rootstock must be compatible for the graft to take, and failure can occur.
- Cost: Grafted plumeria are typically more expensive due to the labor and skill involved.
Rooted Plumeria (From Cuttings):
Definition: Rooted plumeria from cuttings involves taking a cutting from a mature plant, allowing it to callus, and then rooting it in soil.
Advantages:
- Simplicity: Growing from cuttings is generally simpler and requires less specialized skill than grafting.
- Cost-Effective: Rooted plumeria from cuttings are typically less expensive to produce and purchase.
Disadvantages:
- Slower to Bloom: Cuttings may take longer to bloom than grafted plants.
- Potential Disease Susceptibility: Without the ability to select specific rootstock, the plant may be more susceptible to diseases prevalent in the local soil.
Conclusion:
The choice between grafted and rooted plumeria from cuttings depends on various factors, including your goals, budget, experience level, and preferences. Grafted plumeria offer faster blooming and specific characteristics, while rooted plumeria from cuttings provide a more natural and cost-effective option.
If you're looking to replicate a specific plumeria variety with known characteristics, grafting may be the way to go. If you're more interested in enjoying the process of growing plumeria from cuttings, this method might be the better choice.