Propagation Smores
Stem Cuttings & Air Layering
Stem Cuttings
Stem cutting is a common method to propagate many woody plants. Stem cutting is a piece of a stem or branch including at least one node in propagation. Stem cutting is also known as striking or cloning which is a technique to propagate plants.
Materials
- Small pot
- Plastic bag
- Stakes
- Sharp nippers
How To Do A Clean Stem Cutting
1) clean the container
2) moisten the potting mixture with water
3) fill container 3/4 full with the potting mixture
4) select a healthy stem, generally from the top
5) remove any leaves that may be in your way
6) cut at an angle
7) make a hole in the center of of the mixture and pot
8) place the cut stem into the hole and place soil around the stem
9) cover with a plastic bag for 2-3 weeks and place in bright warm area
10) once the root has been planted, you may plant outside
AIr Layering?
Air layering is a form of layering in which the branch is potted or wrapped in a moist growing medium to promote root growth.
Materials
- pruners
- floral knife
- pliers
- rooting hormone
- air layering bags
- aluminum foil
- sharpie
How to: Air Layering
1) add water to the soil
2) fill a layering bag 3/4 full with soi
3) tie bag
4) choose an upward growing branch
5) choose a spot on the branch. 4-6 inches
6) remove the bark from the area
7) apply rooting hormone
8) cut a prepared layering bag
9) wrap the soil/bag around the branch
10) cover branch for 6-12 weeks