When to Pot Propagated Plants
After propagating plants either through cutting, layering, or division, you might be wondering when to pot them. It's essential to know the right timing to ensure that the newly propagated plants will thrive in their new containers. So, in this article, we'll guide you on when to pot your propagated plants.
Cuttings
When propagating plants through cuttings, it's important to wait until the new roots have developed before potting. This is usually around three to four weeks after setting the cuttings in a propagation medium. You can carefully check the progress of the roots by carefully lifting the cuttings a bit to see if there are signs of growth.
After the roots have developed, you can then pot your cuttings. Choose small pots that will fit your cuttings, and make sure that the soil is rich in nutrients and well-draining. Avoid overwatering your newly potted propagations to prevent root rot.
Layering
For plants propagated through layering, you should wait until the rooted stem has formed a healthy root system before potting. This usually takes around a month or so after layering. Check the progress of the roots by carefully removing some soil around the area of the layering, making sure not to disturb the new roots.
Once you've confirmed that the rooted stem has developed a healthy root system, you can then pot your propagations. Choose a pot that's the right size for your plants and make sure that the soil is moist and well-draining before transferring your newly propagated plants. Again, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Division
When propagating plants through division, wait until the new plantlets have developed substantial root systems before potting. The new plantlets should have enough roots to support their growth and survival in their new containers. This can take around four weeks or more, depending on the plant species.
Carefully remove the plantlets and transfer them into well-draining and moist soil. Choose a pot that suits the size of the plantlets, making sure that there's enough space for them to grow. Water your new propagations sparingly until they've established in their new containers.
Conclusion
Knowing when to pot propagated plants is essential in ensuring their healthy growth and survival. Wait until the new roots have developed for cuttings and layering before transferring them into a new container. Additionally, make sure that the soil is well-draining and moist to prevent root rot, while also choosing the right size pot to provide enough space for growth for division.