How to propagate Ficus lyrata
An article with detailed introduction on how to propagate Ficus lyrata and the fastest method for root growth in Ficus cutting, please refer to the detailed introduction below.
Even if you haven't seen the plant "Ficus lyrata" with your own eyes, you might have heard about it. Then, do you know the special considerations we need to take when propagating Ficus lyrata?
Firstly, timing. Although Ficus lyrata doesn't have too many requirements, based on past experience, the success rate of propagation can only be effectively guaranteed in a relatively warm environment. For example, the room temperature should not be lower than 25℃ and preferably not higher than 30℃, and a moderate temperature can promote the cuttings to root and sprout as soon as possible. Keep in mind that too hot or too cold weather will affect the normal growth and development of the cuttings, with the former being more likely to rot and the latter easily suffering from frost damage, which can lead to frostbite or even death.
Secondly, processing the cuttings. For convenience, people can initially select healthy and disease-free strong branches as cuttings. Then, cut about 7 to 8 centimeters of small sections from the selected mother plant, ensuring each section has at least 3 to 4 nodes, and retain 1 to 2 leaves.
Thirdly, something many friends often overlook is preparing some wood ash in advance and dipping the bottom of the cuttings slightly into it. The purpose is to prevent the fresh sap inside the stem from flowing out, thereby reducing the risk of wound rot and deterioration. (If you dip the cuttings into a solution of carbendazim, it can not only perform its original function but also effectively sterilize and disinfect, being gentle, non-irritating, and safe and efficient.)
How to propagate Ficus lyrata
Thirdly, choosing the right pot and soil. Soil, or substrate, is usually recommended to be river sand or perlite, mixed with some other substances in a certain proportion to make high-quality planting material. Unlike other plants, although Ficus lyrata likes fertilizer, there's no need to mix it into the soil in advance, or else the roots may become weak and likely get burnt, which is not conducive to the vigorous growth of new plants. Moreover, to promote healthy growth of the plants, it's necessary to thoroughly disinfect and sterilize the potting soil. Currently, popular methods include high-temperature exposure and using chemicals, which can effectively eliminate various harmful elements - bacteria, viruses, insect eggs, etc.
Fourthly, potting. After completing all the above steps, the following steps generally involve 3 stages.
1. Make a small hole in the pot with a bamboo chopstick and carefully insert the cutting, half way in, and avoid inserting it too deep.
2. Water the plant thoroughly immediately, then pause watering for a short period.
3. Move the potted plant to a cool, well-ventilated area with scattered light as soon as possible. If you're concerned about insufficient humidity in the air, consider covering the pot surface with a thin layer of plastic film for better moisture retention.
Lastly, if unfortunately, the Ficus lyrata fails to sprout, don't worry too much. It's definitely because the new plant has not fully adapted to the pot. Just control water and fertilizer and take good care of it, and the situation will improve significantly in a few days.
The above introduction on how to propagate Ficus lyrata and the fastest method for root growth in Ficus cutting from Green Enthusiast Network [www.lvzhimi.com], have green enthusiasts understood it?