Water Propagation
Have you ever wished you could get more from your plants without needing to buy more? Luckily, there is an endless possibility through a technique called propagation. Depending on the type of plant you are working with, there are a variety of propagation methods, therefore the time and care required also varies. Through this article we will discuss propagating through rooting in water.
This process is called water propagation. This is one of the many procedures for plant propagations. As we may already know, most plants thrive in soil; however, there are some that can actually begin their life cycle in water, resulting in a clone of a parent plant. Water propagation is a simple and straightforward process that requires very little equipment, making it suitable for even the most inexperienced gardener. All you need is water and plant cuttings! Furthermore, water propagation takes up less room and allows you to monitor the roots’ progress.
Water Propagation vs Soil Propagation
When compared to soil propagation, the nicest part about growing plants in water is that insect and disease difficulties are lessened. Soil is susceptible to fungus, soil gnats, and other problems. Clean water has none of these germs and will not cause disease if changed frequently. Plants can be transplanted to a soil media once they have a fully developed root system. In most cases, rooting takes 2 to 6 weeks.
What to Propagate? How?
First things first, what plants can you root in water? There are thousands of plants that can be rooted in water, but here are a few that are easy to get started with:
- Aroids such as Monstera, Philodendron
- Pothos
- Tradescantia
- Begonia
- Christmas Cactus
Once you have decided which plant to propagate, begin by selecting a clean jar or vase in which to propagate plants in water. Then, it is best to take cuttings from healthy plants that have not yet bloomed. Use a sharp knife or a pair of garden shears to cut six inches up from the base of the plant’s stem, just below the leaf node. Most cuttings should be four inches long in general, with two inches of the stem submerged in the water.
Your cuttings will grow best with bright, indirect sunlight. Water should be changed once or twice a week, but it is most important to add water then the level drops and exposes roots to the air. While it varies based on the species, you will typically begin seeing roots after five days’ time. Plants should be removed and potted into a soil mixture when new roots reach a length of roughly one inch or 2-5 cm. If you see a particular stem in a group of cuttings go mushy and start to rot, whip it out before it contaminates the rest of the cuttings.
Upon completion of the process, you can proudly say that your garden has been expanded! Water propagation is a great way to create more plants from existing plants. The real bonus, however, is that you can do this all with minimal cost and effort. So, the next time you want to expand your garden, you know where to start!
Nutrition for Propagated Plants
Propagating plants through water propagation is an efficient way to expand your garden. After a few weeks, the cuttings will have developed a root system and can be transplanted into a soil mixture and begin the normal course of growth. However, for successful propagation, you need to ensure that the cuttings have the necessary nutrients to grow.
The primary nutrient for plants is nitrogen, which is necessary for proper leaf growth. Therefore, it is essential to add a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the water. You can use a liquid fertilizer, such as a fish emulsion or a seaweed-based fertilizer, which are both easily available at garden stores. If you are using tap water, it is best to let it sit for a few hours before you add the fertilizer, as chlorine can be detrimental to the cuttings.
In addition to nitrogen, phosphorus is also essential for plant growth. Phosphorus is particularly important for root development and aids in the absorption of other nutrients. It is best to use a fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen and phosphorus, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer.
Finally, adding a few drops of a plant hormone, such as rooting hormone, can also help stimulate root growth. This is especially beneficial for hardwood cuttings, which can be more difficult to root.
By ensuring that your plants have the necessary nutrients, you can be sure that your water propagation will be successful. With the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and plant hormones, your cuttings will be well on their way to becoming healthy plants.
Unsuccessful Plant Propagation
Propagating plants can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to understand that it is not always successful. There are a number of factors that can cause a propagation attempt to fail, such as incorrect cutting technique, lack of nutrients, or even an unsuitable environment. Here are some of the most common reasons why a water propagation may fail.
- Incorrect cutting technique: Make sure you use sharp scissors or a knife to get a clean cut, as this will ensure that the cutting can form roots quickly and efficiently. Also, make sure you take cuttings from healthy plants, as this will reduce the chance of disease or pests that can damage the cuttings.
- Inadequate water: Water is essential for a successful propagation, so make sure that the cuttings are completely submerged and the water is changed regularly.
- Lack of nutrients: Plants need a balanced ratio of nitrogen and phosphorus for proper growth, so make sure to add a fertilizer to the water.
- Unsuitable environment: Place the cuttings in an area with bright, indirect sunlight and make sure that the temperature remains consistent.
By understanding the common causes of unsuccessful water propagation, you can make sure that your cuttings have the best chance of growing successfully. With the right technique and care, you can enjoy a beautiful, expanded garden.