Greenwood Cuttings

Greenwood cutting is a propagation method that involves taking cuttings from the soft, flexible, and actively growing stems of a plant during the green or "greenwood" stage. During the greenwood stage, the stems of the plant are young and actively growing, and they have not yet hardened or turned woody. The term "greenwood" refers to the fact that the stems are still relatively soft and flexible, and they typically have a greenish color.

Step 1 - Choose a healthy parent plant that is actively growing and in the greenwood stage. This is usually during the spring or early summer when the stems are young, flexible, and have not yet hardened.

Step 2 - Prepare the tools needed for taking cuttings, including a sharp and sterile knife or pruner, a rooting hormone (optional), and a suitable soil mix such as perlite, vermiculite, or a mixture of peat and sand.

Step 3 - Select a stem that is approximately 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long and has at least 2-3 pairs of leaves. Make a clean, diagonal cut just below a node (the area where leaves emerge) to ensure proper rooting.

Step 4 - Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only the topmost leaves intact. If desired, dip the cut end of the cutting into a rooting hormone powder or gel to promote root development.

Step 5 - Make a small hole in the rooting medium using a pencil or finger. Insert the cut end of the cutting into the hole, ensuring that at least one node is buried in the soil. Gently press the soil around the cutting to hold it in place.

Step 6 - Place the cuttings in a suitable environment with consistent humidity and temperature. This can be achieved by covering the cuttings with a clear plastic bag or using a propagation tray with a humidity dome. Provide indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight, as it can cause excessive heat and drying.

Step 7 - Regularly check the soil moisture level and ensure it remains slightly damp but not waterlogged. Mist the cuttings with water to maintain humidity if needed. Monitor for any signs of disease or fungal growth and remove any affected cuttings.

Step 8 - After some time the cuttings should develop roots. You can gently tug on the cuttings to check for resistance, indicating roots. Once well-rooted, carefully transplant the cuttings into individual pots or suitable growing mediums.