Propagation of Plants by Cuttings
Nearly all ornamental plants can be propagated by stem cuttings, a basic gardening technique. Some gardeners, however, garden for years before they attempt it, despite its ease when a step-by-step procedure is applied. There are other propagating methods such as layering, root cuttings and tip cuttings, but stem cuttings work best for many plants. Does this Spark an idea?
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Soil Preparation
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Before cutting the stem from a plant, mix the soil and place it in containers, Use small, plastic ones from garden centers or homemade ones from cut-down milk cartons or plastic soda bottles. Most mixes contain sand, peat moss, vermiculite, pumice and perlite in differing amounts. Some gardeners mix their own; others use commercial potting mixes. Water the containers and make a straight hole in the center of the soil with a pencil.
Stem Cuttings
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Cut the stem in the early morning from a well-watered plant with a clean, sharp knife or pruner. The cut stem should be 3 to 6 inches long, on new growth and cut slightly below a node. Remove the lower leaves from the stem. Plant the node, which will produce the roots and stems, beneath the top of the soil.
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Planting
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Dip the bottom of a stem with a fresh cut into a rooting hormone, a powder available at garden centers. It is important that the rooting hormone covers the nodes. Immediately after cutting, place the stem in the pencil-made hole in the prepared container. Press the soil mix gently around each stem, closing the hole, and water the container. Avoid breathing in the rooting hormone, and wash your hands afterwards.
Growing
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Keep containers with stems out of direct sunlight, which might damage the stems. They should be kept in sheltered areas near the light. Watering is critical. Overwatering can cause rot; underwatering can kill. Cover the stem with a plastic dome to help retain moisture or mist frequently. It may take weeks or even months for a stem to form roots. Once it does, transplant the cutting to its permanent home.
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References
- Photo Credit young plant. Isolation on white image by mashe from Fotolia.com
