Propagation by air layering

THERE are some plants that are really difficult to grow from seeds or cuttings. These tend to be the most expensive ones you see at shows, in catalogues or in garden centres. Professional growers and very keen gardeners can overcome some of the difficulties using specialised techniques and equipment, such as grafting and mist propagation, or high-tech methods like micro-propagation under sterile laboratory conditions.

Ancient Chinese technique

Most gardeners do not have access to these facilities, or the