Tiger Jaws Leaf Cutting Method
Tiger Jaws, as a fine ornamental plant among succulents, has a propagation method of leaf cutting that is not commonly used but has great exploratory value. Compared to traditional stem cutting, leaf propagation is more challenging for growers' skills and patience. This article will break down the process into five core steps, providing a detailed analysis on how to overcome the difficulties of leaf cutting and help you successfully cultivate new plants.
One, Key Points of Leaf Cutting Operation
1.1 Golden Time Window
The best operation periods are early spring (March-April) and late autumn (October-November), when the day-night temperature difference is controlled within 15-28°C. Special attention should be paid to avoid the rainy season when the air humidity is >80%, to prevent moldy cuts.
1.2 Leaf Selection Standards
Select the mature leaves from the 3rd to 4th layers in the middle and upper part, requiring a thickness of ≥0.5cm and no mechanical damage on the leaf surface. Cut the base of the leaf flat with a knife sanitized with alcohol and let it dry in a shaded place for 48 hours to form a protective film.
Two, System Configuration of Cutting Substrate
Use a mixture of perlite/vermiculite/coconut糠 in a ratio of 3:2:1, adjusting the pH value to 6.0-6.5. The substrate needs to be sterilized by high-temperature steam, filled into seedling trays with holes at the bottom, and maintained at a thickness of 5-8cm.
Three, Intelligent Maintenance System
3.1 Environmental Control Plan
Maintain diffused light (3000-5000lux) and air humidity of 60%-70%. Use an intermittent spray system, spraying for 5 seconds at 10:00 and 14:00 each day.
3.2 Root Promotion Techniques
Control the insertion depth between 0.8-1.2cm, and tilt at 45° to increase the contact surface. Water with a diluted 1000x solution of indole butyric acid every 10 days, which can shorten the rooting period by 30%.
Four, Post-Transplant Management
When the new roots grow to over 3cm, plant in a ceramic pot (mouth diameter 12-15cm). Replace the substrate with special succulent soil, water thoroughly for the first time, and then maintain a drought period of 15 days to promote root development.
By precisely controlling temperature, humidity, and light parameters, and using a scientifically formulated root medium, even the challenging leaf cutting of Tiger Jaws can achieve an 80%+ survival rate. It is recommended to try both stem cutting and leaf cutting simultaneously, observe the characteristics of different propagation methods, and accumulate a personal database of planting experience.