How to Prune and Plant Epipremnum aureum: An Illustrated Guide
Epipremnum aureum, as a common indoor foliage plant, requires the essential skill of cutting and propagating through cuttings. With scientific pruning and proper insertion, not only can the life of the plant be prolonged, but a layered green landscape can also be created. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the entire process from stem selection to post-care through 5 key steps illustrated.
One, Substrate Preparation and Disinfection
1.1 Ideal Substrate Formula
It is recommended to use a mixed substrate of perlite: vermiculite: decomposed leaf soil in a ratio of 3:3:4, which ensures both breathability and water retention. Sandy soil should be mixed with 20% coconut bran to improve its structure, avoiding waterlogging and root rot caused by pure garden soil.
1.2 Disinfection and Sterilization Operation
The substrate needs to be treated with high-temperature steam for 30 minutes or sprayed with a 50% carbendazim solution diluted 800 times. Professional growers can choose to soak in a potassium permanganate solution, with the concentration controlled between 0.1%-0.3%.
Two, Stem Selection and Scientific Pruning
2.1 Standards for Quality Stems
Select semi-woody stems with 3-5 aerial root nodes, with a diameter of 4-6mm. Avoid using the top tender stems, as the middle sections contain more active substances, achieving a survival rate of over 90% for cuttings.
2.2 Professional Pruning Techniques
Use a 45-degree oblique cut to increase the water absorption area, retaining the top 2 complete leaves. For larger leaf varieties, cut off 1/2 of the leaf surface and apply wood ash to the cut to prevent bacterial infection.
Three, Root Promotion and Standard Insertion
3.1 Rooting Hormone Application Techniques
Dilute the indole butyric acid solution to 500ppm and soak the base for 2cm for about 15 minutes. In the absence of chemical agents, the extract from willow branches can be used as a substitute, which is rich in natural growth hormones.
3.2 Precision Insertion Operation
Insert the stem at a 30-degree angle into the substrate, with the depth being half the length of the stem. Maintain a spacing of 5-8cm between plants, as excessive density can cause cross-infection of mold.
Four, Environmental Control and Maintenance Management
4.1 Temperature and Humidity Control
Maintain a constant temperature of 25-28°C and an air humidity of over 80%. It is recommended to use a transparent cover to create a mini greenhouse, with ventilation twice a day for 15 minutes each time.
4.2 Light and Water Fertilization Management
Provide diffused light for 4-6 hours a day, avoiding direct sunlight. Keep the moisture content of the substrate at 60% and apply a 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution every week after new roots have emerged.
Through systematic pruning and cutting operations, combined with scientific maintenance management, new roots can develop within 15-20 days. Mastering these key technical points not only improves the success rate of propagation but also fosters robust Epipremnum aureum plants, creating a lush indoor green landscape.