Introduction:
Jade trees are beautiful and easy to care for houseplants. They are usually propagated from cuttings rather than seeds, making the process even easier. In this article, we will discuss how to plant a jade tree cutting and the steps you need to follow.
Gather Your Materials:
The first step in planting a jade tree cutting is to gather all the necessary materials. You will need a healthy jade plant, sharp clean cutting shears or scissors, a small pot, soil mix, water, and a rooting hormone. Make sure that the pot has drainage holes and is big enough to accommodate the cutting.
Prepare the Cutting:
Take a healthy jade tree stem cutting with a pair of shears or scissors. The cutting should be about 3-4 inches long and have at least one or two leaves. Make a clean cut at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for rooting. Remove any leaves at the bottom of the cutting to prevent them from rotting in the soil. Let the cutting dry out for a few hours in a cool and dry place to prevent rotting.
Apply Rooting Hormone:
Rooting hormone helps the cutting to develop roots and grow into a new plant. Dip the cut end of the jade tree cutting into rooting hormone powder and make sure it is coated evenly. Tap off any excess powder and discard the rest as it can cause contamination.
Plant the Cutting:
Fill the small pot with soil mix to about two-thirds of its capacity. Make a small hole in the soil with your finger or a pencil and gently insert the cutting. Firm the mix around the cutting to secure and support it. Water the cutting gently and enough to moisten the soil but not soak it. Place the pot in a bright, warm, and humid location such as near a window or under a grow light.
Caring for Your Jade Tree Cutting:
Your jade tree cutting will take about 6-8 weeks to grow roots and start growing. During this time, ensure that the soil remains moist but not wet. Do not water the cutting if the soil is still moist to avoid overwatering. Once the cutting has established roots and starts growing, you can transplant it into a bigger pot or container with well-draining soil mix. Place the plant in bright indirect light and water it moderately only when the soil is dry. Jade trees prefer to be slightly dry rather than too wet.
Conclusion:
Planting a jade tree cutting is an easy and fun way to grow a new plant. You only need a few materials and a little patience to succeed. Follow the above steps and watch your new jade plant grow into a beautiful and admired addition to your indoor garden.