What is the best time to propagate camellia branches?
As one of the most popular ornamental flowers, the success of camellia cutting propagation often depends on the timing. Different types of branches have varying sensitivity to climatic conditions, and mastering the relationship between branches and seasons is key to successfully cultivating new seedlings. Through scientific observation and horticultural practice, we have summarized the specific characteristics of the three golden periods for cutting propagation.
Three Golden Periods for Camellia Cutting Propagation
Young Shoots in Late Spring and Early Autumn
When the temperature stabilizes between 18-25°C, it is the ideal window for young shoot cuttings. In late spring (April-May), new shoots are semi-lignified, and in early autumn (September-October), secondary growth branches are suitable. During these periods, branch cell division is active, and new roots are more likely to emerge with the stimulation of day-night temperature differences. It is recommended to cut robust branches with 3-4 buds in the early morning, keeping the cut angle at 45° to increase the water absorption area.
Mature Hard Branches in Winter-Spring Transition
Hardwood cuttings are performed from late winter to early spring (February-March) to utilize the nutrients accumulated during the plant's dormancy period. Select brown old branches about 0.5 cm in diameter, retaining a length of 15-20 cm. It is essential to prevent cold during this cutting period, and it is suggested to use a double-layer covering method: an inner layer of transparent film to maintain humidity and an outer layer of shade net to prevent frost. Maintaining the substrate temperature above 10°C can significantly increase the survival rate.
Young Axillary Buds in Spring
When the spring temperature rises to 15°C for a week, the best time for cutting new axillary buds arrives. Select new buds with 1 cm of lignified base, using a mixture of vermiculite and perlite as the substrate and maintaining an air humidity of over 80%. This method is sensitive to light intensity, so it is recommended to place it in a bright diffused light environment. Callus formation can be observed after two weeks.
Key Points for Post-Cutting Care of Camellias
Light Control Strategy
Complete shading is required for the first 7 days after cutting, then gradually increase diffused light. When new leaves unfold, they can be exposed to 2-3 hours of direct sunlight in the morning. Special attention should be paid to avoiding the intense sunlight from 11-15 pm in summer, using a 50% shade net for protection.
Water Management Techniques
Use intermittent misting to keep the leaves moist, and control the substrate moisture at around 60%. The watering timing can be determined by observing the surface of the substrate: mist when the perlite starts to turn white. Change to a dry-wet watering method in the later rooting stage (about 45 days after).
Nutrition Supplement Plan
In the early stage of root development (20-30 days), apply a solution of 50 ppm of indole butyric acid, foliar spray once every 10 days. When the new shoots grow to 5 cm, switch to a slow-release fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 1:2:1, combined with seaweed extract to promote the development of fine roots.
By precisely grasping the cutting timing for different types of branches, combined with temperature and humidity control and nutritional management, efficient propagation can be achieved throughout the year. It is important to note that different camellia varieties have a 10-15 day growth period difference, so it is recommended to adjust the operation schedule flexibly according to local phenological characteristics. Regularly observe the formation of callus at the cut, and timely optimize environmental parameters to increase the overall survival rate to over 85%.