The propagation of Fittonia
Abstract: This article discusses the related content of Fittonia propagation, let's learn about it together.
Also known as Fittonia verchaffeltii or Red Fittonia, Fittonia is a plant belonging to the family Acanthaceae. With a delicate posture and a small, dainty plant size, Fittonia is considered a small potted plant among ornamental foliage plants. Due to its clear leaf veins, elegant leaf color, and symmetrical patterns, it is deeply loved by people and is currently a very popular small potted variety in Europe and America. In fact, Fittonia has a short history, only half a century since its discovery in the 1940s. Today, it is very common in European and American windowsills, balconies, and living rooms, indicating Fittonia's special charm. Fittonia leaves are fresh and beautiful, making it particularly suitable for potted display.
Propagation methods
Common methods include cutting, dividing, and tissue culture propagation.
Cutting propagation: Fittonia can be propagated by cutting all year round under suitable temperature conditions, with the best results from May to September when the temperature is slightly higher. Cuttings about 10 cm long with 3-4 internodes are taken from the stolons that emerge above the pot surface, the lower leaves are removed, and after slightly drying, they are inserted into a sandy bed. If the temperature of the cutting medium is between 24-30°C, roots can develop 7-14 days after insertion. If the temperature is too low, it is more difficult for cuttings to root. Generally, the plants can be transplanted into pots after one month.
Dividing propagation: For plants with dense stems and leaves, many stolons have already developed adventitious roots. As long as the stolons are more than 10 cm long with roots, they can be directly potted. After recovering for 1-2 weeks in a semi-shaded area, they can be transferred to normal care.
Tissue culture propagation: Leaf blades and shoot tips are commonly used as explants. After sterilization, the leaves are cut into pieces 8-10 mm long and inoculated into MS medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine at 2 mg/L, naphthaleneacetic acid at 2 mg/L, and 2,4-D at 1 mg/L. After 30 days, the leaves will curve, and after another 20 days, clusters of buds will emerge. The clusters of buds are then cut and transferred to 1/2 MS medium supplemented with naphthaleneacetic acid at 0.1 mg/L, where they will develop adventitious roots in about 1-2 weeks and form complete plants.
Cutting propagation
Cutting medium: This refers to the nutrient soil or materials such as river sand and peat used for cutting. It is difficult for home cutting to obtain ideal cutting medium due to limited conditions, so it is recommended to use pre-prepared and sterilized cutting medium; medium-coarse river sand can also be used, but it should be rinsed several times with clean water before use. Sea sand and river sand from saline-alkali areas should not be used, as they are not suitable for the growth of flowering plants. The selection of cutting branches: The branches used for cutting are called cuttings. The stems are cut into sections 5-8 cm long, each with three or more internodes, and the top shoots can also be used as cuttings.
The above is a complete introduction to the propagation of Fittonia, hoping it can be helpful to you. Don't forget to check out more gardening experience and knowledge!