The Fastest Method for Rooting Milan Cuttings
Milan flowers are favored by gardening enthusiasts for their elegant and fragrant scent, but they often encounter the problem of slow root growth during the cutting propagation process. Many flower friends are curious whether Milan can root quickly through hydroponics like pothos. This article will delve into the core techniques of Milan cutting, reveal the feasibility of hydroponic rooting, and share professional gardeners' summarized efficient rooting solutions.
I. Choosing the Right Time and Understanding the Principles of Milan Cutting
Optimal Season and Temperature Control
April to June is the golden period for Milan cutting, as the ground temperature stabilizes between 28-32°C, which can activate cell division at the base of the cuttings. Experimental data shows that when the substrate temperature is maintained at 30°C, the rooting period can be shortened to 40 days, which is 30% faster than in normal temperature conditions.
II. Key Steps in Cutting Treatment
Selection Standards for High-Quality Branches
When selecting one-year-old semi-woody branches, attention should be paid to the deep green waxy luster of the top leaves, and the distance between axillary buds should not exceed 2cm. The diameter of the branches should be controlled between 0.5-0.8cm; too thin and there is insufficient nutrient reserve, while too thick and the healing tissue forms slowly.
Scientific Cutting Techniques
Use a 45-degree oblique cut to increase the water absorption area, and retain 2-3 functional leaves for photosynthesis. The cut should be immediately dipped in a mixture of rooting powder and carbendazim, which can enhance the anti-corrosion ability by 20%.
III. Substrate Formula and Container Selection
Verification of Hydroponic Rooting Feasibility
Experiments show that the hydroponic rooting period can last up to 90 days, and the roots are fragile and easily breakable. It is recommended to use a mixed substrate of vermiculite: perlite at a ratio of 3:1, which achieves the optimal balance of water retention and breathability, increasing the rooting rate to over 85%.
Container Disinfection Tips
Using dark-colored plastic pots can avoid direct sunlight from damaging the roots, and the bottom of the pot should have 4-6 drainage holes. The substrate should be sterilized with high-temperature steam before use to kill nematodes and other soil-borne pathogens.
IV. Intelligent Environmental Control Solutions
Temperature and Humidity Management System
Build a simple greenhouse to maintain 85% air humidity, with a daytime temperature of 28-30°C and not lower than 25°C at night. Ventilate for 20 minutes every 3 days to prevent mold growth, and complement with grow lights for 4 hours daily.
Water and Fertilizer Management During the Rooting Period
Supply water using the bottom immersion method, adding 50mg of Vitamin B1 per liter of water to promote root development. Absolutely no fertilization should be done before rooting, and when new roots reach 3cm, a 1/5000 solution of indole butyric acid can be applied.
By scientifically controlling temperature, selecting cuttings, and optimizing the substrate, the rooting rate of Milan cuttings can be significantly improved. Although the hydroponic method is visually appealing, considering the efficiency of rooting and the survival rate of transplantation, it is recommended to prioritize the matrix cutting method. Mastering the techniques in this article can enable flower friends to achieve the breakthrough of Milan cutting surviving in 60 days.