The fig tree (ficus carica) is a very popular ornamental and edible plant whose fruit is delicious and nutritious. Cuttings are a common method of propagation of fig trees, which has the advantages of simple operation and high survival rate. This article will introduce the cuttings method of fig seedlings in detail.
Choose the right time for cuttings.
The cutting time of fig trees is generally in spring and autumn, and the temperature in these two seasons is moderate, which is conducive to the rooting of cuttings. When cutting in spring, it is best to choose in March and April, when the temperature gradually rises, which is conducive to the growth of branches. Autumn cuttings can be selected in September-October, when the temperature is moderate, which is conducive to the rooting and overwintering of branches.
Prepare cuttings.
Choose healthy, pest-free fig tree branches for cuttings. The length of the cuttings is generally between 20-30 cm and the diameter is about 05-1 cm. 2-3 full bud eyes should be retained on the branches to facilitate rooting. After cutting the branches from the mother tree, cuttings should be carried out immediately to avoid the loss of water from the branches and affect the rooting.
Handle cuttings.
Before cuttings, the shoots need to be treated. First, use sharp scissors or a blade to cut 1-2 cm from the lower end of the shoot to reduce water evaporation. Then, cut a bevel at the lower end of the shoot to increase the area where the shoot is in contact with the soil, which is conducive to rooting. Finally, some rooting powder can be applied to the lower end of the shoots to promote rooting.
Prepare the cuttings matrix.
The cutting substrate is required to be loose, well-drained, and fertile. It can be made by mixing humus, perlite, sand and other materials. Put the substrate into a cuttings container, such as plastic pots, flower pots, etc., and compact the substrate so that the substrate is kept at a certain distance from the edge of the container for easy watering.
Cuttings are made. Insert the treated cuttings into the substrate to a depth of about 1 3-1 2 of the length of the shoot. Take care to keep the spacing between the shoots so as not to affect each other's growth. After the cuttings are completed, gently compact the substrate by hand so that the shoots are in close contact with the substrate.
Manage cuttings.
After cuttings, water in time to keep the substrate moist. During the rooting period of the branches, it is necessary to avoid direct sunlight to avoid water loss of the branches. At the same time, to maintain the humidity of the substrate, you can spray water appropriately to moisturize. After the branches take root, the light can be appropriately increased to promote the growth of seedlings. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the prevention and control of pests and diseases to maintain the healthy growth of seedlings.
Transplanting and colonization. When the fig sapling grows to a certain height, it can be transplanted and colonized. Choose a fertile, well-drained plot, dig an appropriately sized pit and place the seedlings in the pit so that their roots are in full contact with the soil. After filling the soil, it should be watered thoroughly to promote the growth of seedlings. In the process of seedling growth, attention should be paid to pruning, fertilization, pest control and other management work.