Stem-propagating technique
Remove a top-growth cutting or tip
cutting from the plant, leaving three to four leaves. Make the cut just below
the stem node (the place where the leaf and stem join). It is important to be
sure there is a dormant eye or bud at this node. Remove the bottom and dip the
cutting into a rooting hormone, such as Dyna Gro Root Jell.
Next, stick the cutting into a container with a rooting medium
-- a peat-based potting mix, sand, or perlite -- and then thoroughly water. In
the winter home environment, the pot and cutting is placed into a clear plastic
bag to help increase humidity until the cutting has begun to root. The new cutting
is then placed in an area that is warm (about 70 degrees) and bright, but keep
it out of the hot noonday sun. Depending on the temperature, it can take
several weeks for the plant to root. Once roots are established, the plant can
be taken out of the bag and placed in a brighter spot that gets some direct sun
light. As the cutting grows, it can be repotted and cultured into a new
specimen.
Leaf-propagating technique
Remove a mature leaf and the leaf
petiole from the plant. Dip the stem at the cut into a rooting hormone, and
then stick it into a container with sand or a peat-based potting mix and water.
Leaf cuttings at this time can again be placed into a plastic bag, but
generally it isn't necessary.
Next, place the cutting and container in an area that is warm
(about 70 degrees) and bright, but keep it out of the hot noonday sun. In
several weeks, the stem will root. In 8 to 12 weeks, a young plant will emerge
from the base of the stem. These young plants should be allowed to grow until
they are several inches in height, at which point they can be separated and
repotted. Once roots are established, the plant can be moved to a brighter
location with some direct sunlight.
Resources:
Byron Martin, owner of Logee's Greenhouses
in Danielson, Connecticut
