Gardeners' glossary A-Z

Budding

A method of propagating fruit trees and a wide range of other plants, by taking a cutting of a variety with buds attached (scion) and joining it on to another related variety (stock). The tissues grow together and a single plant is formed, with the top growth of the scion on the base of the stock.

Bulb

A short, underground stem with fleshy, modified leaves, used as a food storage organ by a dormant plant.

Bulbil

A small bulb that develops above ground from a bud. Bulbils may be formed on the stem of auxiliary buds or in place of flowers. They drop off the parent plant and develop into new individuals in a process of asexual reproduction and dispersal.

Bulblet

An immature or small bulb found at the base of a mature bulb that may be removed to propagate additional plants.

Bullate

Appearing blistered or puckered.

Burr/bur

1) A rough, prickly husk or covering that surrounds seeds or fruits.

2) A plant producing such husks.