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Learn how to
Propagate
using Prop Drops
Your step by step guide
for successful propagation.
Let's begin by understanding what Propagation is. Propagation is a method of plant reproduction or "cloning" - asexually. (or with out the need for flower pollination or seeds.) Instead a portion of a plant material is removed from the plant you want to reproduce and by introducing natural or synthetic rooting hormones and by placing the cutting in a suitable environment, the cutting is encouraged to form its very own root system. After healthy roots have been established on the cutting you can introduce your new plant to soil!
Step by Ste
Cut with Confidence.
Not all plants can be reproduced in this way so it is important to first make sure that the plant you have chosen to propagate is one that has the specific anatomy that will allow new roots to form. In this step by step guide we will be using Aroids as the example. (Philodendron, Epipremnum, Anthurium, Etc.) Aroids are a great Plant family to start with because they are naturally more inclined to root due to their genetic makeup.
When you have chosen your plant you want to identify a Node. A node is a growth point on the plant that stores an incredible amount of genetic and functional data. The node is capable of multiple essential plant functions. When that node is placed or put into different environments or situations it will act accordingly to sustain the life of the plant or to reproduce when necessary.
The Node can be identified in most vining and climbing Aroids as a place along the main stem where there is a leaf, aerial root, or growth emerging.
The node is the most essential component to successful propagation. Because with out it, the cutting will not root.
When you have identified your node, make a cut two or more nodes down the main stem from the the newest growth at the end. Giving your cutting multiple points for potential new roots.
Substrate
you have many options when it comes to what medium you can use to root your new cuttings in. you want to consider what will retain the moisture enough to keep the plant wet so that new roots can emerge, but not so wet that rot takes over.
Some popular propagation substrates include: Perlite, Spagnum Moss, and LECA. (light weight - expanded - clay - aggregate or the red clay pebbles you see many plant parents use to add bulk to their soil or as their propagation media.)
But by far the most used medium for propagation is - water. choose a vessel that will allow your cutting to have the nudes submerged but not the top growth or leaves. - This will prevent rot.
Stimulate Growth
While Propagation can be preformed without the use of a rooting hormone, incorporation one into your propagation process will greatly increase your success rate and reduce the chance of loosing the cutting to rot.
This is where Prop Drops come in!
add a single pipette of Prop Drops to your preferred substrate or to 16 fl oz of water ( a standard mason jar) at the beginning of the propagation process. Don't worry about adding too much because Prop Drops will not burn your plant. The natural hormones will kick your cutting into hyper drive and send the message to the nodes that its time to root!
Just place your cuttings in bright - indirect light. Avoid too much direct light to prevent mold or fungus growth.
New Roots!
If you are using water for propagation - change the water periodically to prevent algae or bacteria build up that could suffocate the new roots that are forming. Add prop drops after every water change until new roots have been established. Propagation time it takes to form roots can vary depending on the time of year and plant species. So be patient! Wait for the new roots to be over 1" in length with off shoot roots before introducing to soil. When its time for a repot, you can even add Prop Drops to your soil to prevent transplant shock.
Tutorial Vid.
Plant Parent Essentials
Tools that I can't live without.
Video Tutorial
Check out this Video Tutorial to watch the full process of cutting , propagating one of my favorite houseplants.
Make sure to show us all of your new roots and how you are using Prop Drops as a tool. We are rooting for you!
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