Can Epipremnum aureum be propagated by cutting in spring?
Epipremnum aureum, as a popular indoor ornamental plant, is favored by horticulture enthusiasts for its vigorous vitality and strong reproductive ability. Every spring, there are always flower friends asking whether it is suitable to propagate through cutting during this season. This article will analyze the growth characteristics of Epipremnum aureum from the perspective of plant physiology and detail the complete process and key points of cutting and maintenance in spring.
Growth Characteristics of Epipremnum aureum and Timing for Cutting
Analysis of the Optimal Temperature Range
Epipremnum aureum shows the best growth in an environment of 15-28°C. When the early spring temperature stabilizes at above 18°C, the growth hormone in the plant becomes active. Cutting at this time can avoid the dormant seedling phenomenon caused by low winter temperatures and the risk of cutting rot caused by high summer temperatures and humidity.
Five-Step Cutting Method for Epipremnum aureum
Selection and Pretreatment of Branches
Select robust branches with 3-5 aerial root nodes and cut at a 45-degree angle using scissors disinfected with 75% alcohol. Enlarging the cut area can improve water absorption efficiency, and soaking in a diluted 500-fold solution of indole butyric acid for 10 minutes can significantly increase the root formation rate.
Substrate Preparation and Disinfection
It is recommended to mix珍珠岩 (perlite): 蛭石 (vermiculite): 腐叶土 (decomposed leaf soil) in a ratio of 2:1:3, and the substrate should be sterilized with high-temperature steam before being placed in containers. Maintain the moisture content of the substrate at around 40%, as excessive moisture can lead to mold at the base of the branches, while excessive dryness affects the formation of callus.
Three Elements of Environmental Control
Set up a simple humidification shed to maintain 80% air humidity and ventilate for one hour in the morning and evening each day. Placing it on a north-facing windowsill with ample scattered light and keeping the substrate temperature 2-3°C higher than the ambient temperature is more beneficial for root development.
Advanced Maintenance After Cutting
Observation Period of Root Development
New white root points can be seen between the 7th and 10th day, at which time the light intensity should be gradually increased. Supplement with a phosphorus-potassium foliage fertilizer (EC value controlled within 1.2mS/cm) every 3 days to promote the lignification of the roots.
Techniques for Transplanting into Pots
When the new roots reach 5cm or more, transplant on a cloudy day. After planting, water using the immersion method and maintain an alternately wet and dry state of the substrate to avoid rotting of the new roots due to waterlogging.
Through systematic temperature and humidity management and scientific operation procedures, the success rate of Epipremnum aureum cutting in spring can reach over 90%. Mastering the technique of activating aerial roots and the key points of phased maintenance, even horticulture beginners can easily achieve large-scale propagation of Epipremnum aureum.