What are potential offshoots?
Before taking cuttings from plants, it is important to examine the plant closely. Simply cutting off a leaf often only results in a short-lived cut flower. Here are the key steps for successful cuttings:
- The plant should be healthy and strong.
- It is worth giving the plant time to grow before taking a cutting.
- Ideally, you should cut between two leaf nodes (internodes), as this is where the suitable cell material for root formation is available.
Before cutting: hygiene is crucial!
A dirty kitchen knife or unsterile scissors are taboo. Imagine you were a surgeon - cleanliness is the top priority! Plants don't like germs, just like our bodies. What can lead to inflammation in us causes rot in plants.
- Only use very sharp cutting tools, such as sharp kitchen knives, scalpels or, best of all, a cutter.
- Disinfect the tools thoroughly, e.g. by rinsing them with disinfectant or alcohol. Pay attention to your safety and avoid cuts!
The cut: precision is required
Cut the cutting cleanly without sawing, pushing or crushing it. Leave some space between the cutting and the future roots so that any rot can be corrected.
- Disinfect the tool and wash your hands after each cut if you make multiple cuttings.
Aftercare: Patience is key
After cutting, the plant will "bleed", but like a small cut on your finger, this will stop on its own. Some plants secrete colored fluid, so you should be careful where you put the cut material.
- Allow the cuttings to dry for about 12 hours. Drying the cut surface too quickly or not at all is a common mistake. The cutting should not be put in water until the cut surface is dry.
- We are critical of sealing with wax or other agents, as you cannot be sure what you are sealing (germs could easily multiply underneath).
What happens then?
In the first few days you will quickly see whether the cutting was successful. The leaves should remain taut. If they hang limply, something is wrong. Check the cut: is it soft or does it smell strong? Then you have to start over. But don't worry, if you have left enough "air" it is not a problem.
- Usually, small root buds can be seen after just a few days. Allow the roots to branch out before placing the cutting in the future substrate.
- We first allow the young roots to grow in loose, moist moss. Once the roots have penetrated the cup or pot, the plant is ready to move to its new home.
With patience and care, you can successfully propagate your plants and give new plants a home. Happy Gardening!