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How To Take A Semi-Ripe Cutting
A semi-ripe cutting is taken from this year's growth - the tips are new tender
growth, with the lower part of the cutting being older and harder
growth. This method of propagation is common for most shrubs (not
evergreen). Some common examples are choisya, lavender, philadelphus
(mock orange), potentilla and weigela.
The best time to take a semi-ripe cutting is normally in mid to late summer - potentilla fruticosa
cuttings should be taken a little later in the year - early autumn is
ideal. For the first month or so, the cutting will need to be shaded
from direct sunlight, but in a warmish environment - a cold frame or
propagating case is ideal.
STEP 1
Take the cutting from this year's growth. Select a shoot where the
tip is soft new growth, but the lower part is harder older growth. Using
a sharp knife, take a cutting 15-20cm (6-8in) long. If possible,
select a shoot which has no flowers or buds on it.
Remove any leaves from the lower part of the shoot and cut it
immediately below a leaf joint. Cut off the soft new growth at the top
of the shoot just above a leaf joint. The ideal cutting should now be
about 5-10cm (2-4in long).
STEP 2
For each cutting, fill an 8cm (3in) pot with potting compost. Dip
the base of the cutting in hormone rooting powder, make a small hole in
the compost and insert the cutting into the hole to about a third of
it's length. Firm the compost down around the cutting. Water well.
STEP 3
To prevent the cuttings loosing too much water. place the pots in a
small propagator with the vents closed. Alternatively, cover each pot
with a plastic bag kept off the cuttings by wire hoops inserted into the
compost. Place the cuttings in a warm, draught free place which is
always out of direct sunlight. A propagator is ideal or against the
house wall.
STEP 4
The cuttings will have rooted in a month or so. At this stage,
harden them off over a week or two to the normal weather. During the
winter, the plants need the protection of a cold frame or unheated
greenhouse. The plants can be planted in their final positions next
spring.
END OF ARTICLE
Copyright 2000-08 David Marks. All rights reserved.
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