How to propagate hydroponic epipremnum aureum cuttings
This topic introduces how to propagate hydroponic epipremnum aureum cuttings and the detailed steps for doing so. Let's learn about it together.
Epipremnum aureum is a large evergreen plant belonging to the genus Epipremnum. Not only are its leaves green and translucent, but it also remains green all year round, with strong vitality and excellent air purification abilities. Keeping a pot or two of epipremnum aureum at home has become a habit for most people. The simplest way to obtain epipremnum aureum, besides buying it, is actually propagation by cuttings. Today, Ayong will discuss the detailed steps for propagating epipremnum aureum using hydroponic cuttings to help you quickly and healthily grow a vigorous plant.
Step 1: Prepare the cutting container, with "small" and "transparent" being the key points
If you want to propagate epipremnum aureum using the hydroponic method, you need to prepare an exquisite container. This container should be transparent to allow us to observe the growth state of the epipremnum aureum roots, and it should not be too large. The top leaves of the epipremnum aureum should be above the water surface to enable normal photosynthesis and breathing. Therefore, small and transparent are the key points when selecting a container.
Suggestion: We can use small disposable plastic cups or transparent glass bottles, but make sure the opening is large enough.
Step 2: Choose the right branches
Choosing the right branches for propagating epipremnum aureum is crucial. Choosing the right branches not only makes it easier for roots to grow but also speeds up later growth. Below, we will explain the selection method for branches from two forms of epipremnum aureum: the vine-like and the short and sturdy types.
① Vine-like epipremnum aureum
If your epipremnum aureum has grown large and turned into a vine, when selecting branches, we mainly observe its leaves, looking for a branch with healthy leaves, no yellowing, no diseases or pests, and a relatively thick branch with aerial roots already growing at the nodes.
② Short and sturdy epipremnum aureum
If your epipremnum aureum has been maintained for a short time and has not yet grown into a vine, we need to select the branches in the center of the pot. Cutting these branches helps the epipremnum aureum mother plant create space to grow healthier, but also pay attention to choosing sturdy branches when selecting branches.
Whether it's vine-like epipremnum aureum or short and sturdy epipremnum aureum, when making cuttings, try to choose parts with the terminal buds. If you only need one cutting, you must choose one with a terminal bud. If you need multiple cuttings, don't waste the cut branches; process them all for propagation.
Step 3: Process the branches, making cuttings
After selecting the branches, we cannot use them directly for propagation but need to process them to create the perfect cutting shape.
Method:
① Each cutting should have at least 1-2 nodes, preferably 2 nodes. Nodes are the basis for root growth, so they cannot be missing, but also don't have too many nodes.
② When pruning the epipremnum aureum branches, the pruning position should be about one centimeter below the node, preferably cut at a 45-degree angle to increase the water absorption area and speed up root growth.
③ The final step in making epipremnum aureum cuttings is to remove the lower leaves, leaving only 1-2 top leaves. Since we are inserting them in water, the bottom leaves can cause rot if immersed in water for too long. Only retaining the top leaves for photosynthesis can provide the nutrients needed for root growth, and too many leaves can burden the branch and affect root growth.
How to propagate hydroponic epipremnum aureum cuttings
Step 4: Add water and propagate
After all the preparations are done, we can add water to the container and start propagating epipremnum aureum. However, it is important to note that the water used for propagating epipremnum aureum should not be tap water directly. It is best to use water close to nature, such as river or lake water. If tap water must be used, Ayong suggests boiling the tap water to remove disinfectants and then letting it sit for 1-2 days before using it for propagation.
When propagating epipremnum aureum, the lowest node must be submerged in water, but the leaves must be above the water surface. This is also one of the important reasons for controlling the size of the container and cuttings when choosing and making them. If you have done the preparations thoroughly, you can propagate directly. After a few days, roots will start to grow from the submerged node position.
Step 5: Use carbendazim and root stimulant to accelerate root growth and prevent root rot
Although epipremnum aureum propagation is relatively simple and has a high survival rate, it is prone to root rot. Therefore, after epipremnum aureum propagation is complete, it is best to directly spray it with a 0.2% carbendazim solution, then spray every 15 days to prevent root rot.
In addition, to speed up root growth, we can add a small amount of root stimulant to the epipremnum aureum culture water. Remember not to use too much, as this can shorten the root growth time, allowing for normal transplanting in 15 to 20 days.
Step 6: Post-propagation care
After epipremnum aureum propagation, it is not enough to neglect it. Post-propagation care also plays a vital role in whether the epipremnum aureum can survive successfully and root quickly. Post-propagation care mainly involves three aspects.
① Indirect light care
After propagation, we must place the epipremnum aureum in a scattered light environment, not too dark, and not exposed to direct sunlight.