Stem Cutting
By: Maddie Miniscalco
Supplies needed for cutting
1. Sharp knife or pruning shears
2. Containers for proper potting of the cut stems
3. Potting mix, perlite, vermiculite, or sand
4. Rooting hormone (optional)
Step 1: cut off a section of the stem
While making your cut keep in mind a healthy growth about 3-6 inches long. try making a sharp cut. if you do not do so the mashing/crushing of the stem may lead it to be more difficult for the shoots to develop new roots.
Step 2: Removal of the lower leaves
After cutting your stem at the appropriate length cut off the leaves on the lower half of the shoot so you have a bare stem to place into your potting mix. and for your cuttings to root faster you may dip the end of your leafless steam in rooting hormone.
Step 3: Pot your cutting
immediately after steps one and two you want to pot up your cutting in potting mix, sand, perlite, or vermiculite. Make sure to keep your cutting humid by loosely wrapping it in clear plastic. on average it takes about a month or two for your cuttings to root so just be patient.