Abstract:
Crabapple is a popular ornamental plant, favored for its beautiful flowers and graceful posture. There are many ways to propagate crabapples, and stem cutting is a viable method. Let's take a detailed look at the techniques and methods of propagating crabapples by stem cuttings.
Crabapple is a popular ornamental plant, favored for its beautiful flowers and graceful posture. There are many ways to propagate crabapples, and stem cutting is a viable method. Let's take a detailed look at the techniques and methods of propagating crabapples by stem cuttings.
The Suitable Time for Stem Cutting Propagation
The best time for propagating crabapples by stem cuttings is in spring or autumn, as these seasons are peak periods for crabapple growth and development. Summer, with its high temperatures and humidity, makes crabapples susceptible to pests and diseases, making it unsuitable for stem cutting propagation.
Notes on Selecting Cuttings
Cuttings should be selected from healthy, vigorous branches free of pests and diseases, approximately 15-20 cm in length. Also, ensure there are 3-4 buds on the cutting to guarantee strong growth.
Prepare the Appropriate Substrate
The substrate for stem cutting propagation should have good air permeability and drainage. We can choose materials like vermiculite, peat moss, and sandy soil to make the substrate. We also need to add an appropriate amount of well-rotted organic fertilizer to the substrate to provide nutrients.
Processing the Cuttings
Before performing stem cutting propagation, we need to remove 2/3 of the leaves from the cuttings. This reduces water evaporation and photosynthesis, which is beneficial for the growth of the cuttings.
Soaking in Rooting Powder
Place the prepared crabapple cuttings in rooting powder and soak them for 20-30 minutes. Rooting powder contains hormones and nutrients that promote root development in the cuttings.
Rooting the Cuttings
Insert the cuttings soaked in rooting powder into the prepared substrate. Pay attention to the depth of insertion; generally, it should be inserted below the bud eyes. Then gently compact the substrate to ensure close contact between the cutting and the substrate.
Covering for Moisture Retention
Place the planted cuttings in a propagation box or cover them with a transparent plastic bag to maintain suitable temperature and humidity. Rooting requires a humid environment to promote root formation.
Controlling Light
After planting, we need to place them in a shaded or semi-shaded area to avoid direct sunlight. Adequate light can promote the growth of crabapple cuttings, but excessive light can cause the cuttings to dry out and die.
Regular Watering
During the propagation process, we need to water the cuttings regularly to keep the substrate moist, but not overwatered to prevent rotting. Generally, watering once or twice a week is sufficient.
Foliar Fertilization
During the growth of the cuttings, we can appropriately spray some foliar fertilizer to provide nutrition and promote growth. However, when applying foliar fertilizer, it's important to use it in moderation to avoid over-application.
Uncover to Acclimate to the Environment
When the cuttings develop new shoots or roots, we can gradually uncover them to let them adapt to the external environment. This is beneficial for the healthy growth of the cuttings.
Transplanting
When the cuttings grow to more than 10 cm, we can transplant them. Move the cuttings to suitable soil, ensuring the soil remains moist and protecting them from direct sunlight.
Pruning Some Buds
Once the cuttings have grown to a certain extent, we can appropriately prune some buds to ensure even growth. It also stimulates the growth of new shoots.
Thorough Watering to Improve Nutrient Absorption
Crabapples are plants that love water, so after propagation, we need to water them thoroughly on a regular basis. Sufficient water promotes nutrient absorption and overall plant development.
Propagating crabapples by stem cuttings is a simple, effective method. As long as you follow the steps above, you can successfully propagate crabapples. Additionally, stem cutting propagation is also a sustainable green planting option that can bring more beauty to our lives.
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