How to propagate hydrangea cuttings for better survival
This article provides detailed information for netizens who are concerned about how to propagate hydrangea cuttings and the timing and methods of hydrangea cutting propagation in green plant and flower planting, with the following specifics:
Mentioning hydrangeas, some people may be unfamiliar with them, but if you say绣球花 (绣球花 means "silk balls" in English), people immediately think of a large bunch of beautiful silk balls. In fact, hydrangeas are silk balls, a common type of flowering plant, suitable for landscaping and garden beautification, with a relatively simple cultivation method. The common propagation method for hydrangeas is cutting propagation. When done at the right time, the survival rate of the cuttings is very high, and the cuttings can grow into vigorous plants in the same year. Hydrangea cutting propagation is suitable for field seedling raising and also for home cultivation. Hydrangeas bloom in summer, with compact flowers, large flower shapes, and bright colors.
1. Soil
Hydrangeas prefer fertile, well-drained sandy soil. Appropriate soil should be prepared before planting, which can be special nutrient soil or a mixture of garden soil, decomposed leaf soil, and fine sand.
2. Watering
Watering depends on the condition of the soil, just keeping it moist. In spring and autumn, water every two days. In summer, when evaporation is high, water daily and also spray water around to lower the temperature. During the rainy season, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot in hydrangeas.
3. Fertilization
Fertilization for hydrangeas mainly occurs during the growing season, with a thin cake fertilizer applied every half month. During the bud formation period, additional fertilization is done 1-2 times. Adding a soak solution of superphosphate can make the hydrangea flowers larger.
4. Sunlight
Hydrangeas prefer semi-shade and should not be exposed to direct sunlight, especially in summer, as their plants can be scorched. During summer, provide shade for hydrangeas, while allowing normal sun exposure in spring, autumn, and winter.
5. Cutting Time
The time for hydrangea cutting propagation is in spring, specifically in early March, when the temperature rises and stabilizes between 13-17 ℃, which is favorable for the growth of hydrangeas. Cuttings made during this period root quickly, and the seedlings grow vigorously.
6. Cutting Selection
Choose one-year-old branches as cuttings, focusing on those that are vigorous, strong, and free of diseases and pests. The branches should be about 10 cm long, with the bottom cut diagonally, and most of the leaves on top removed or cut in half to prevent water evaporation.
7. Substrate Preparation
For cutting propagation, you can use the selected substrate, river sand, or nutrient soil as the cutting substrate.
8. Cutting Method
Spread the substrate evenly on the seedbed or fill a container with it. Insert the prepared hydrangea cuttings into the substrate, water thoroughly after insertion, and place them in a well-ventilated area without direct sunlight. Gradually increase sunlight as the cuttings root.
The above introduces detailed information on how to propagate hydrangea cuttings and the timing and methods of hydrangea cutting propagation, hoping it brings you help!