For gardening novices, cuttings and grafting may be relatively unfamiliar concepts. However, these two methods of propagation are not difficult to master, and they are a great way to quickly increase the number of plants. In this article, we'll start with the basics, cover the steps of cuttings and grafting, and what to look out for to help gardening novices easily master these two propagation methods.
1. Cuttings. Cuttings are a method of propagation by cutting the stems or leaves of plants. This method is simple and easy to implement, and the survival rate is high. Below we will go through the steps of cuttings in detail.
1.Select the cuttings.
Choose healthy plants and cut their robust, pest-free shoots or old shoots as cuttings. Each cuttings are generally 10-15 cm long, with 2-3 leaves retained.
2.Prepare the potting soil.
Choose a pot with good air permeability and put it in soil with good air permeability. Materials such as vermiculite and perlite can be used as substrates for cuttings.
3.Cuttings operation.
Insert the cuttings into the soil to a depth of 1 3-1 2 of the length of the cuttings. Gently compact the soil so that the cuttings are in close contact with the soil. Then water thoroughly and place in a well-ventilated, semi-shaded place.
4.Conservation management.
Keep the soil moist but avoid over-wetting. Under the right temperature, it can take about 20-30 days to take root. When the new roots grow to 3-5 cm, they can be transplanted into other pots.
2. Grafting. Grafting is a method of making the branches or shoots of one plant heal and grow into a new plant by grafting them to the rhizomes of another plant. This method can be used to propagate some plants that are difficult to cutting, such as roses, roses, etc. Below we will go through the steps of grafting in detail.
1.Choose rootstocks and scion.
Choose strong, pest-free plants as rootstocks, and cut healthy, plump buds or shoots as scions.
2.Prepare tools and materials.
Prepare tools and materials such as sharp grafting knives, plastic films, etc.
3.Grafting operations.
The rootstock and scion are beveled to ensure that they can be tightly combined. The scion is then attached to the rootstock and tied tightly with plastic film to ensure that the joints are tightly bonded. Place in a well-ventilated, semi-shaded place away from direct sunlight.
4.Conservation management.
Keep the soil moist and watch for dryness or decay at the interface. Under the right temperature, it can generally heal and grow in about 20-30 days. When the scion begins to grow, the plastic film can be gradually loosened.
It is important to note that whether it is cuttings or grafting, it is necessary to choose healthy, pest-free plant material, maintain the right temperature and humidity, and good ventilation conditions. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to details during operation, such as the length of the cuttings, the handling of the interface, etc., which directly affect the survival rate. Through practice and continuous experimentation, novice gardeners can easily master the two propagation methods of cuttings and grafting, making their small garden more colorful.