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When the cutting has been in the solution for the specified length of time, remove it and immediately place it in the growing medium. Gently press the medium up against the stem to firmly hold the cutting in a vertical position. In the picture at the right, "Oasis" cutting cubes are being used. Remember to put the name of the cultivar the cutting came from on a tag and place it next to the cutting. The cubes or the potting medium should be watered so as to be moist (more than damp, not wet) to the touch. I find that the initial watering is sufficient until the cuttings have taken root. |
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Your cutting should look similar to that shown on the right. The arrow designates the node from which the cotyledons were removed. Cuttings will vary in size depending on the cultivar, but the process by which you take the cuttings and the general appearance of the cutting are similar no matter the size. |
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Next, you must find some way to keep the humidity around your cuttings fairly high. You can purchase expensive misting systems or use a standard tray "high dome" available at most hydroponic retail stores. The domes come equipped with small vents to cut open at the top, but you will need to bore five or six 3/8 inch holes in the side of the domes to allow sufficient air to circulate throughout the dome. The cuttings need air as well as moisture. If heavy condensation accumulates on the dome, the humidity is too high. The dome may need to be propped up a little to let in more air. The humidity should be kept as high as possible without any condensation so as to minimize fungal growth. |
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Next, a good light and heat source is necessary. A greenhouse or well-lighted patio or sun porch will be sufficient provided you can maintain the temperature range at 68 to 72 degrees fahrenheit around your cuttings. In the picture on the right, the room temperature is maintained at 60 degrees and the four "cool white" fluorescent tubes above the plants provide enough heat to maintain the temperature in the domes at 70 degrees. Heating cables may also be used. Your cuttings should not be fed until evidence of significant root growth is visible. Even then, only a very dilute solution of a high phosphate water soluble fertilizer (such as Shultz 10-60-10) should be used. Follow the instructions "for cuttings" that come with the fertilizer. Some people do not fertilize their cuttings until three or four weeks go past. (See Gary D. Miner for a different approach) |
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