How to Layer Naranjilla Trees: A Guide to Propagating and Growing

Naranjilla, also known as Lulo, is a tropical fruit native to South America that is gaining popularity in other parts of the world due to its unique flavor and potential health benefits. If you're growing naranjilla trees or planning to start, one technique that can help you propagate new plants and increase your yield is layering. In this guide, we'll show you how to layer naranjilla trees and give you some tips for successful propagation and growth.

What is Layering?

Layering is a propagation technique where you encourage a plant to produce roots on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. Once the roots have formed, you can separate the new plant from the parent and transplant it elsewhere. This method is often used for trees and shrubs that are difficult to propagate from cuttings or seeds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Layering Naranjilla Trees

A mature naranjilla tree with fruits

Here are the steps to follow to successfully layer naranjilla trees:

Step 1: Choose a Healthy Parent Plant

The first step in layering naranjilla trees is selecting a healthy parent plant. Look for a tree that is at least two years old, has no signs of disease or pests, and is growing vigorously.

Step 2: Find a Suitable Branch

Select a branch that is flexible and strong enough to bend and hold soil. The branch should be at least one year old and about the thickness of a pencil. Make sure there are no leaves or side shoots within six inches of the point where you plan to make the cut.

Step 3: Make a Cut

With clean and sharp pruning shears, make a cut through the bark and cambium layer of the selected branch. The cut should be about an inch long and at a slight downward angle.

Step 4: Apply Rooting Hormone

Coat the cut area with a rooting hormone to stimulate root development. You can find rooting hormone powder or gel at garden centers or online.

Rooting hormone powder is readily available

Step 5: Wrap with Moss

Wrap the treated area with moist sphagnum moss and then cover the moss with plastic wrap. The moss will help keep the cut moist and provide nutrients for the developing roots. The plastic wrap will help retain moisture and warmth.

Step 6: Secure the Moss and Plastic Wrap

Tie the wrapped area securely with twine or a rubber band to hold everything in place.

Step 7: Wait for Roots to Develop

Leave the branch alone for several weeks until roots have developed. This may take anywhere from four to twelve weeks depending on the temperature and humidity levels where you are growing the tree.

Step 8: Remove the New Plant

Once you see roots emerging from the moss, it's time to remove the new plant from the parent tree. Cut the branch below the rooted area and gently remove the moss and plastic wrap. Then, carefully separate the new plant from the parent and transplant it into a container filled with well-draining soil.

Tips for Successful Propagation and Growth

Healthy naranjilla seedlings

Here are some additional tips to ensure successful propagation and growth:

• Choose a location with full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil.
• Water regularly but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season.
• Prune regularly to encourage branching and fruit production.

Layering is a useful technique for propagating naranjilla trees and increasing your yield. With these step-by-step instructions and tips for successful propagation and growth, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the unique flavor and potential health benefits of this tropical fruit.

Naranjilla, Lulo, tropical fruit, propagation, layering, gardening, health benefits