Plant Propagation is the science and skill of creating new plants from seeds, cuttings, divisions, layering, or other methods. In this project, you can learn how plants reproduce and how growers multiply healthy, desirable plants for gardens, greenhouses, landscapes, and food production. Members explore both sexual propagation by seed and by vegetative propagation (cuttings, division, layering) while developing hands-on skills in plant care, observation, and problem-solving.
Exploring 4-H Floriculture - Plant Propagation
Spark Activity: Start and Compare Two Seed Methods
Try this simple experiment to see how growing conditions affect seed germination.
What You’ll Need:
- 6–10 fast-germinating seeds (beans, radishes, or zinnias)
- Paper towels
- Two resealable plastic bags or small containers
- Water
- A sunny window or light source
What To Do:
- Moisten two paper towels and place several seeds on each.
- Seal each set in a plastic bag or container.
- Place one in a sunny window and one in a slightly darker location.
- Observe daily and record when seeds sprout.
- Compare root and shoot growth after several days.
Reflect:
- Which seeds germinated first?
- How did light exposure affect growth?
- What other factors might influence germination?
4-H Project Levels and Goals
- Identify parts of a seed and basic plant structures
- Successfully germinate seeds
- Learn proper watering and light practices
- Keep simple growth records
- Practice vegetative propagation (cuttings, division)
- Compare propagation methods for different plants
- Monitor environmental conditions
- Document plant growth progression
- Conduct propagation experiments and analyze results
- Select appropriate methods for specific plant species
- Maintain plants long-term and troubleshoot problems
- Present research findings and recommendations
Put Your Project Into Action
Show Your Skills
- Exhibit a plant you propagated from seed or cuttings
- Create a photo display documenting growth stages
- Compare two propagation methods and share results
- Develop an educational poster explaining propagation techniques
Service and Leadership
- Teach younger members how to start seeds
- Donate propagated plants to a community garden
- Host a plant-starting workshop
- Share propagation tips at a club meeting
Entrepreneurship
- Sell propagated plants at a local plant sale
- Start a small seed-starting business
- Offer custom-started plants for gardeners
- Develop plant care instruction cards for customers
Technology Connection
- Use grow lights and timers for controlled environments
- Track growth data digitally
- Research plant databases for propagation recommendations
- Create time-lapse videos of plant growth
Connecting with a Mentor
- Extension educator
- Greenhouse manager
- Nursery production specialist
- Master Gardener volunteer
- Botanic garden horticulturist
Events
- County and State 4-H Shows
- Plant Science Workshops
- Horticulture Judging Contests
- Community Plant Sales
- Green Industry Field Days
Project Manuals & Exhibit Requirements
The Floriculture project area is in the process of undergoing an update to better reflect the skills required to be a successful floriculturist. The 4-H Project Booklets available through Shop 4-H will continue to be acceptable resources to guide your learning.
You will also be able to access our Project Resource Preview, which will describe how you can find and share your own Floriculture educational resources (provided they are from reputable sources.) 4-H Floriculture - Plant Propagation
Purchase 4-H manuals on the Shop Illinois 4-H Store.
View exhibit requirements and scoresheets on the Illinois State Fair page.
Careers
- Greenhouse Grower
- Nursery Production Specialist
- Plant Breeder
- Horticulture Educator
- Agricultural Extension Specialist
- Botanical Garden Horticulturist
- Floriculture Production Manager
Start a Conversation
- Why did you choose this propagation method?
- What environmental factors influenced your results?
- How did you solve challenges during propagation?
- How might plant propagation connect to your future goals?
Credits
Illinois 4-H Project Guide
University of Illinois Extension staff who contributed to this resource include Kathy Book and Mark Becker.
