Live & Grow Issue 50

Make the cut for
your houseplants
Most plants you've taken home from a garden
centre always start in a cutting mix specific to
their needs. Read on to become the propagation
pro so you can grow top-grade plants at home.
Most importantly, it is recommended to research
the plant's specific needs, such as its light and
moisture requirements, and select the correct
cutting mix suitable for that plant type.
Characteristics of a great cutting mix:
1. Adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, root rot, and
mould growth.
2. Good aeration allows oxygen to reach the roots and promotes
healthy root development. A good mix may include peat
moss, pumice, and perlite in appropriate proportions.
3. Nutrient rich to support the growth of new roots and shoots.
4. Sterilisation of pots to prevent the growth of harmful
pathogens.
To take a cutting from a houseplant:
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Tips
1. Choose a healthy, mature stem that is not flowering and has
2–4 leaves, depending on the plant variety.
2. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle with a clean, sharp blade
just below a leaf node (the point where a leaf attaches to the
stem).
3. Cut the leaves in half on the lower half of the cutting to
reduce water loss and for quicker root development.
4. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder.
We love Egmont IBAdex.
5. Place the cutting into a pot with the cutting mixture you
selected.
6. Place your pots onto your heat pad. Place the pot in a bright
area away from direct sunlight.
7. Once roots have formed, and new growth appears, the
cutting can be potted into Oderings Houseplant Potting Mix
and moved into the next sized pot.