Talking Plants

University of Minnesota, Clay County

Propagating houseplants is an activity the whole family can enjoy. Success depends on using the right potting medium, a clean container, and providing an adequate growing environment.
There are several kinds of potting media that can be used for cutting propagation if it provides moisture and oxygen in the proper balance, support for the developing plant, and is free of pathogens. Peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, sand, and various combinations of these materials have been used to successfully establish cuttings. Most of the materials are readily available individually or as a ready-to-use potting mix. Some of the best potting mixes for propagation contain peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Avoid using potting mixes that contain soil because these tend to become waterlogged due to poor internal drainage.
A variety of containers are suitable for cutting propagation as long as they have drain holes. Common household recyclables such as milk cartons, yogurt containers and salad trays work great. Just wash these before use and punch a few drain holes in the bottom. Containers may also be purchased from your local garden center.
After cuttings have been placed in the potting mix and thoroughly watered, cover them loosely with a sheet of plastic to help keep the humidity high while they are rooting. Cuttings should be placed near a window where they will receive at least one to two hours of bright indirect light. Avoid placing cuttings in direct sunlight because they may burn under the plastic. If a suitable location is not available, set up a small light table using a four-foot shop light attached or suspended above the cuttings. Use cool fluorescent or daylight LED bulbs and position the light so cuttings are four inches below the light. Keep the light on for a minimum of 10 to 12 hours per day. Check cuttings periodically to make sure they have enough water. If any cuttings die or show symptoms of rot remove them immediately. After cuttings are rooted, they can be carefully removed and transplanted into small containers.
Propagating houseplants can be an easy and relatively inexpensive family project. Join me next week as I explain how to take cuttings from houseplants.

University of Minnesota,Clay County 218.299.5020.
Check out our website at https://local.extension. umn.edu/local/clay