Detailed explanation of reed cutting propagation method, a new skill for home gardening

Choose cutting time, select cutting materials, handle cuttings, prepare cutting substrate, perform cutting operation, water and care, prevent and control diseases and pests, transplant and manage.

Reed, a widely distributed aquatic plant in our country, is increasingly favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique ornamental value and ecological function. The propagation of reed cuttings is not only simple and easy to perform but also has a high survival rate, making it a common propagation method in home gardening. This article will introduce the method of reed cutting in detail to help you master this gardening skill easily.

Choose cutting time

The best time for reed cutting is usually in spring and autumn when the temperature is moderate, which is conducive to the rooting and sprouting of reeds. Spring cutting is suitable from March to April, while autumn cutting is best from September to October.

Select cutting materials

Choosing healthy reeds as cutting materials is crucial. Vigorous reed stems free from diseases and pests should be selected as cuttings. The length of the cuttings is generally 20-30 centimeters, with the bottom cut diagonally and 1-2 leaves retained at the top.

Handle cuttings

Soak the cut cuttings in rooting powder. The concentration of the rooting powder is generally 500-1000 mg/L, and the soaking time is about 30 minutes to promote rooting of the cuttings.

Prepare cutting substrate

The cutting substrate for reed cuttings should be made of materials with good breathability, such as sandy soil, river sand, and perlite. Sieve the cutting substrate to remove impurities, then mix it with an equal amount of decomposed leaf soil or peat soil to make a cutting bed.

Perform cutting operation

Insert the processed cuttings into the cutting substrate at a certain spacing, with a depth of about 1/3 to 1/2 the length of the cutting. The cuttings should remain upright and should not be tilted.

Watering and care

After cutting, water thoroughly and keep the soil moist. During the reed cutting period, maintain a higher humidity and a suitable temperature. In summer, it is appropriate to provide some shade to prevent the cuttings from dehydrating.

Prevent and control diseases and pests

Reeds may have problems with diseases and pests during the cutting period, such as black spot disease and rot. If diseases and pests are found, measures should be taken promptly, such as cutting off diseased plants and spraying pesticides.

Transplant and manage

After 1-2 months of growth, when the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to paddy fields or flower beds. After transplanting, fertilize and water appropriately, keep the soil moist to promote the growth of reeds.

Reed cutting is a simple and easy propagation method suitable for home gardening enthusiasts. By following the above methods, you can easily propagate beautiful reeds at home. In the actual operation process, pay attention to the growth of the cuttings and adjust the care measures in a timely manner. I believe you will be able to successfully propagate lush reeds.

References:

[1] Zhang Lihua, Li Ming. Research on Reed Cutting Propagation Technique [J]. Rice Science, 2015, 29(3): 267-270.

[2] Zhao Xiaohui, Wang Lili. Analysis of Reed Cutting Propagation Techniques and Its Influencing Factors [J]. Rice Science, 2017, 31(4): 354-358.