Propagated by means of seeds and bulbels.
Feverfew. See [Chrysanthemum].
Ficus. Urticaceæ.
The greenhouse species are propagated by layers and cuttings. The cuttings are handled in a close frame, and a leaf or two is usually left on them. For Ficus Carica, see Fig. Propagation by seeds is sometimes used in the edible figs, but is not easy with the ornamental sorts. F. elastica, F. Indica, etc., are increased by cuttings, planted in sand or sandy soil, and placed in good bottom heat, in a frame under glass. The large cuttings should be staked, and care must be taken to remove the milky juice before planting. Any winter month is good, before growth begins. Last season’s wood should be used.
Fig (Ficus Carica). Urticaceæ.
Figs grow readily from the plump seeds in the commercial fruit. Wash out the seeds, and those that sink may be sown in a frame. The young plants will appear in three or four weeks. In from three to five years the plants will begin to bear. New varieties are obtained in this way.
Varieties of the fig are multiplied with ease by layers, suckers and cuttings. Make cuttings of mature wood in autumn, cutting just below a bud. Scarce varieties may be multiplied by single eye cuttings. Fig cuttings are handled in the same way as grape cuttings. Some prefer, however, to place the cuttings where the tree is to stand. A well-grown plant will bear at two or three years of age.
The fig is readily budded and grafted, but these methods are seldom employed, because the plant is so easily multiplied by cuttings. Shield, ring or tubular buddings are employed. Various methods of grafting are adapted to it, and cleft-grafting is usually employed on old plants.
Filbert.. See [Corylus].