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Propagation by cuttings
Create New Plants for your Garden
May 10, 1999
Geraniums, Fuschias, Dianthus, Chrysanthemums and many other softwood plants
can be easily multiplied by taking softwood cuttings early in the spring.
Not all species of plants can be propagated from cuttings, but for the
plants that can be reproduced this way, you will be able to create a genetically
identical clone.
The ideal time to take cuttings is when the plant has begun it's active growth
cycle in early spring. The 'stock' plant should be healthy and well branched
to ensure the health of the new clones.
Using a sharp clean knife, take a cutting 3 or 4 inches in length from the
top growing tips or vigorous side shoots. The cut should be made at a slight
angle, just below a node (The point on the stem where a leaf has developed).
Trim off any flower buds and the lower leaves from the cutting,
leaving a stem with 3-4 leaves at the tip. Dip the cut end into a rooting
hormone such as Roottone® or Hormonex®, and insert the cutting deep enough
into sterile moist sand, vermiculite or sphagnum moss that it will support
itself. At least one node must be buried, but it is better if there are
2-3 nodes covered. (The nodes are where the new roots will emerge from.) Water
the rooting medium well. Create a mini-greenhouse over the container with
poly film over a wire frame (an old aquarium works very well for this) and
place it in a bright, warm spot (NOT full sun). Keep the cuttings at a
minimum temperature of 72 degrees, and you will be rewarded with several
new plants in just a few weeks.
Keep in mind that when you are doing any type of plant propagation that you
are doing "plant surgery", and that cleanliness is extremely important.
Always use a clean, sharp knife and sterile potting medium for the best results!
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