What method is commonly used for propagating most woody plants?

The method of propagating most woody plants commonly involves taking cuttings. This technique allows for the production of new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant, which is particularly advantageous for maintaining the desirable traits of specific varieties. When taking cuttings, a section of the stem, leaf, or root is removed from the parent plant and treated to encourage root development. This method is often favored because it can be more efficient and faster than growing plants from seeds, as cuttings can quickly develop into healthy, independent plants while retaining the characteristics of the original.

Seeds can also be used for propagation, but they may not always produce offspring true-to-type, particularly with certain cultivars, where genetic variability can occur. Layering involves encouraging roots to develop on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant, which can be effective but typically requires more time and specific conditions. Grafting involves joining tissues from two different plants to grow as one, which is practiced mostly for specific purposes, such as improving disease resistance or fruit production, rather than propagation of most woody plants.