How to propagate stevia through cutting
About how to propagate stevia by cutting and the detailed method of stevia cutting propagation, let's learn about it together.
Stevia is native to the highland meadows at the border of Paraguay and Brazil in South America and is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family, Stevia genus. Stevia prefers warm and humid conditions, can tolerate low temperatures, has poor drought resistance, is sensitive to light, blooms from July to September, and fruits from September to November. Its leaves contain high sweetness and low calorie stevioside, which can be used as a food additive. The propagation methods of stevia include seed propagation, layering, and cutting propagation, among which cutting propagation is the most commonly used. Let's learn about it together below.
1. Cutting Time
For propagating stevia through cutting, the time can be chosen in late March to April in spring or from September to November in autumn. During this period, the climate is warm and relatively humid, which can improve the survival rate of cuttings and promote root growth.
2. Selection of Cuttings
Good cuttings have a higher survival rate after propagation and are stronger in later growth. Choose healthy branches or lateral stems that are disease-free and robust, cut 15 to 20 cm segments with a disinfectant-treated scissor, and apply carbendazim to the wound.
3. Soil Preparation
Choosing a sandy soil that is well-drained, loose, and fertile is beneficial for the root growth of cuttings. To prevent the presence of eggs and germs in the soil, the soil should be disinfected and sterilized after preparation.
4. Performing Cuttings
Insert the prepared cuttings into the soil one-third or one-half, keeping a row spacing of 2 cm. After cutting, water promptly and thoroughly, then cover with a plastic film to keep warm and shaded.
5. Maintenance Management
During the period when the cuttings take root and sprout, the soil should be kept moist. Water when the top layer of soil is slightly dry and white but do not overwater. When new sprouts appear on the cuttings, it is appropriate to ventilate and gradually expose to light.
The above sharing on how to propagate stevia through cutting and detailed explanation of the stevia cutting propagation method is for everyone to learn and understand!