How to propagate Dendrobium by cuttings (cutting time, method and precautions)

First, cuttings

The flowering period of Dendrobium can be divided into spring Dendrobium and autumn Dendrobium . There are some particularities in choosing cuttings. Spring Dendrobium can be cut in autumn and you can see the flowers blooming in the spring of the following year. Autumn Dendrobium is best cut in spring and you can enjoy the flowers in the second half of autumn.

The reason for this subdivision is because "Dendrobium consumes a lot of nutrients after flowering, and missing the flowering period can increase the survival rate."

Generally, two-year-old branches are used for cuttings. The branches are light green to dark or purple or brown, and those with Dendrobium leaves are the best.

Too tender branches are prone to water loss, affecting the survival rate. Too old branches have reduced cell activity, affecting germination and survival rate.

Use a utility knife to divide the selected branches into 3 to 5 sections according to the nodes of the stem. The length is generally about 6 to 10 cm.

The cut should be smooth and free of rough edges. Then dry the cut in a cool and ventilated place, usually for 24 hours.

Second, cutting method

The rooting location of Dendrobium is mainly on the nodes of branches, so do not use the soaking method, as soaking will cause the wound to rot.

The rooting agent used for Dendrobium is "indoleacetic acid". It is the kind of packaging with fruits and vegetables on it.

When using, dry the wound of the Dendrobium cuttings and spray the rooting agent on the branches. After the above preparations are done, let's talk about the two cutting methods:

(1) Sphagnum moss promotes root growth

Prepare dry sphagnum moss and wrap the branches of Dendrobium in the sphagnum moss, leaving two to three branches exposed. Then use aluminum wire to wrap the sphagnum moss and the branches of Dendrobium to the rotten wood. Spray to keep the sphagnum moss slightly moist.

Just place it in a diffuse light position and avoid strong sunlight.

(2) Seedbed cuttings

The sand bed is covered with a mixture of rotten bark and volcanic rock. Then sphagnum moss is spread on it. The dendrobium branches are placed horizontally on the sphagnum moss. A small 5X5 wire mesh is used on top and gently pressed on the dendrobium branches.

Pay attention to adjusting the angle of the branches of Dendrobium, about 20 to 30 degrees. Spray the sphagnum moss and provide appropriate shade to avoid strong light.

Third, management after cutting

The survival rate of Dendrobium cuttings using the above method is quite high. In spring, white roots can be seen in about 20 days of cuttings. In autumn, roots can be grown in about 25 days of cuttings.

When taking cuttings in spring, pay more attention to the problem of water accumulation; when taking cuttings in autumn, pay more attention to the problem of moisturizing.

After the Dendrobium cuttings survive, you can start daily management. When watering, in addition to spraying, keep the planting material moist.

When the planting material is dry, you can water it according to the dryness of the flower soil, and water it thoroughly if it is not dry. The water for Dendrobium can be supplemented by spraying.