Do you want to bury the leaf just after it comes out?
Leaf cutting and propagation of succulent plants is a commonly used cultivation method by horticulture enthusiasts. When the new root system breaks through the parent leaf, how to deal with it directly affects the survival rate. Many novices are often confused when faced with slender roots: Do these new roots need to be covered with soil immediately? The correct handling method is related to whether the seedlings can smoothly transition to the independent growth stage. Analysis of the necessity of covering leaf cutting roots with soil potential risks of root exposure If new air roots are exposed to the air for a long time, they will experience significant dehydration within 48 hours. Experimental data show that the rate of loss of water from air roots not covered with soil is three times that of soil covering treatment, and the nutrient consumption of mother leaves increases by 40%. The best time for covering soil is judged when the root length reaches 0.5-1cm. At this time, the root system has the ability to absorb autonomously while retaining enough space for extension. Through observation through a magnifying glass, transparent root hairs can be seen at the root tip, which is a sign of activation of absorption function. Operation Guidelines for Meat Leaf Planting and Soil Covering Medium Formulation The golden ratio recommends using a mixed substrate of perlite: vermiculite: peat =2:1:1, with a particle size of 1-3 mm. This structure not only ensures air permeability, but also forms a capillary effect to continuously supply water. The progressive soil covering technique uses a layered covering method: the first layer is covered with 1mm fine particles, and the second layer is added 24 hours later. During operation, use elbow tweezers to pick up the particles and gently spread them at an angle of 45° along the root growth direction. Advanced maintenance precautions Humidity gradient control maintains a dry layer of 5mm on the top of the substrate and a moisture content of 20% on the lower layer. It is recommended to use a graduated point-tipped pot and inject 5ml of clear water along the edge of the basin every time. Mother leaf protection plan After covering with soil, the mother leaf sandpiper will keep 30% in contact with air, and use a brush to clean the dust on the leaves regularly. When the diameter of the daughter plant reaches 1/3 of the mother leaf, the nutrient supply of the mother leaf can be gradually cut off.
Through scientific soil covering and precise maintenance, the survival rate of fleshy leaf seedlings can be increased to more than 85%. The key is to grasp the "three-layer progressive soil covering method" and the "dry and wet alternating principle", regularly observe the development status of root systems, and adjust maintenance strategies in a timely manner. It is recommended to touch the substrate with a toothpick every 7 days to detect humidity and establish a dedicated maintenance log to record growth data.