How to Strike Cuttings – Part 1 – A-Grade Hydroponics
Posted on by Jason G
A cutting is a name given to the segment of plant mater that has been removed.
There are 3 types of cuttings;
- Stem cutting
- Leaf cutting
- Root cutting
This tutorial will focus on stem cuttings, so, before taking your cuttings prepare all necessary items in the work space for removal and transplant.
What types of substrates can be used to strike cuttings and their difficulty?
Perlite – Medium
Vermiculite – Medium
Grow-wool – Easy
Peat Moss – Easy
Coco Coir – Easy
Potting mix – Medium
When taking cuttings it is worth noting that faster rooting varieties do not need to be large in size to root, in fact selecting shorter smaller cuttings will result in much better propagation. An important factor here to consider is how hard the stem cutting will be would you consider it woody, or soft?
Plants that take longer to establish roots should be taken as much larger and longer cuttings these plants generally exude a waxy or milky substance after cutting (it is worth rinsing this substance before planting) also dipping these varieties in sand first will help prevent rot and aid in the development of a callous which in turn prevents wilt.
When transplanting to your preferred medium (substrate) some gardeners opt for hormone rich rooting tonics and gels, some gardeners opt for a bacterial based root inoculant and others will just use water, there are so many ways try them all and see which one suits your growing style.
If you are reading to learn how to clone a cutting, please read this blog as it contains the 6 steps crucial to cutting success!
