Cuttings are parts of a plant that are separated from the parent plant and used to grow a new, independent plant. This method of plant propagation is particularly popular because it is relatively easy to do and often results in faster growth and healthier plants.
Types of offshoot formation
runners (stolons):
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Description: Runners are special shoots that spread horizontally above or just below the ground. New plants develop at the nodes of these shoots.
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Examples: strawberries, spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum).
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Procedure: After sufficient root formation, the new plants are separated from the main shoot and planted separately.
downers:
- Description: This involves bending a branch of the mother plant into the ground and partially covering it until it takes root.
- Examples: raspberries, currants.
- Procedure: As soon as roots are visible, the rooted branch can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted.
Kindel:
- Description: Offshoots are small plants that form directly on the mother plant and already have their own roots.
- Examples: orchids, bromeliads.
- Procedure: The offshoots are carefully separated from the mother plant and cultivated in their own pot.
Cuttings:
- Description: Cuttings are cut parts of a plant (stems, leaves, roots) that are placed in water or soil to form roots.
- Examples: roses (stem cuttings), African violets (leaf cuttings), hydrangeas and many popular houseplants such as monstera or ivy.
- Procedure: Cuttings are the type of offshoots that still need to be rooted. You can read how to successfully take cuttings here.
Advantages of propagation by rooted cuttings
- Speed: The new plant often has a growth advantage because it already has roots.
- Genetic identity: The offshoot is a clone of the mother plant and therefore retains all characteristics, which is particularly advantageous for plants with special characteristics.
- Cost Saving: It is a cost-effective method of obtaining new plants as there is no need to purchase seeds or additional plants.
Steps to a successful offshoot
- Check: If you have discovered an offshoot on your plant, first look for a connection to the mother plant. Carefully check the soil to see whether the offshoot has already developed its own roots.
- Separating: Gently pull the offshoot out of the soil if it comes away easily. If it is firmly attached to the mother plant, cut the offshoot from the plant with a clean, sharp knife. Always make sure that the roots remain intact.
- Planting: Plant the separated cutting directly into a suitable substrate (e.g. potting soil). Moisten the soil, but avoid waterlogging.
- Care: Place the planted cutting in a bright but not directly sunny location. For plants that require high humidity, you can cover your cutting with a clear plastic bag to increase the humidity.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Separating too early : It is better to leave weak offshoots with few roots on the plant so that they can develop further or place them in water first to encourage root formation.
- Overwatering: Waterlogging can lead to root rot. Keep the substrate of your cutting moist, but not wet.
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Too little light: Make sure the cutting gets enough light, but not direct sunlight.
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Impatience: Give the cutting time to develop. Avoid transplanting too early.
