Propagation by Leaf Cuttings

Now we split the stem in two, giving us two "split stem leaf cuttings" In the picture on the right the distance between the nodes on the plant was very short so we have a very short piece of stem on either side of the node. The piece of stem above the node need not be very long. (The picture on the right shows the plant node upside down to facilitate splitting the stem.)

The picture on the right demonstrates what we should have after we have finished the cutting. A meristem growing out of the crotch formed by the stem and a leaf stalk (petiole). The stem above and below the node can be cut much shorter, but you will find that the longer stem below the node will ease the problem of holding the cutting in the medium. Additionally, the additional stem makes a greater reserve of nourishment available to the meristem.

Next, the cutting should be placed in a root stimulator such as "Hormex" or "Dip N Grow." In the case pictured, hormex is in the container with the other cuttings. Follow the instructions that come with the stimulant.

A rooting hormone that also contains a fungicide is preferred to just a rooting hormone. Dispose of any rooting hormone that has been used (in which cuttings have been dipped). Putting it back in the container with the unused hormone may contaminate the unused portion.

The leaf in the picture on the right has been trimmed. If the leaf is very large and interferes with placing the cutting in the growing medium, the leaf may be trimmed to one-half its original size.

At this point it is well make some mental notes:

• When the cutting has been in the rooting hormone as long as specified in the instructions, remove it and place it in the planting medium.

• If you cannot put the cutting in the stimulant right away, place it in water temporarily until you are ready to put it in the stimulant. If the cuts of the cutting are exposed to air too long, an embolism may form and prevent the cutting from getting nutrients.

• The task of placing a leaf cutting in the growing medium is considerably more difficult than that of placing sprout cuttings.

• A brief discussion of growing mediums is provided in the sprout cuttings section.