Growing a plant from a clipping, also known as a cutting, is a straightforward process involving the following steps:
Preparing the Cutting and Potting Mix
- Select a healthy cutting: Choose a healthy stem from the parent plant.
- Prepare the rooting mix: Use a damp, well-drained rooting mix. This provides the right environment for root development without becoming waterlogged.
- Create a planting hole: Use a pencil to make a hole in the rooting mix. This prevents damage to the delicate cutting during planting.
Planting the Cutting
- Place the cutting: Carefully insert the cutting into the hole you made in the potting mix.
- Firm the soil: Gently firm the rooting mix around the cutting to secure it in place and ensure good contact between the stem and the soil.
- Trim leaves (if necessary): If any leaves are touching the surface of the potting mix, trim them back. This prevents rotting and fungal issues.
Aftercare
- Multiple cuttings: You can place multiple cuttings in the same pot, as long as the leaves of the cuttings don't touch each other.
Summary of Steps
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Select Cutting | Choose a healthy stem from the plant you want to propagate. |
| 2. Prepare Potting Mix | Use a well-drained, damp rooting mix in your pot. |
| 3. Make Hole | Use a pencil to make a hole in the potting mix. |
| 4. Insert Cutting | Carefully place the cutting into the hole. |
| 5. Secure Cutting | Firm the rooting mix around the cutting to ensure it's secure. |
| 6. Trim Leaves | If any leaves are touching the soil surface, trim them. |
| 7. Optional: Multiple Cuttings | Several cuttings can be placed in the same pot provided that the leaves don't touch. |
By following these steps, you can successfully grow new plants from clippings.
