Root cuttings are usually taken from 2 to 3 year-old plants during which period when carbohydrate reserves are high?

• A. During the summer when they are in full leaf
• B. During the dormant season when they have a large carbohydrate supply
• C. After flowering
• D. In the spring as leaves are emerging

Answer: (B)

Taking root cuttings relies on the plant having stored energy in its roots to fuel the formation of new roots. During the dormant season, 2- to 3-year-old plants store a large amount of carbohydrates in the root system, because growth above ground is paused and resources aren’t being used for leaves or flowers. That stored energy is available to the cutting as it starts to root, helping callus formation and root initiation without competing with active shoot growth. If you take cuttings in the summer when the plant is in full leaf, or after flowering, or as leaves are just starting to emerge in spring, the plant is directing energy to new growth and seed production, leaving less carbohydrate reserve to support rooting. So, the dormant period, when carbohydrate supply is high in the roots, provides the best conditions for successful root cuttings.