Chlorophytum capense cutting propagation methods and pruning techniques
Chlorophytum capense is a popular potted spider plant among gardening enthusiasts. Its leaves are round or heart-shaped, with branches and foliage spreading out and hanging down from all around the pot, giving it great ornamental value. However, Chlorophytum capense grows relatively quickly, so it is very suitable for propagation by cuttings, which is a bonus for many people. But when pruning branches, you still need to pay attention to your own methods and approach.
Chlorophytum capense cutting propagation methods
1. Timing
When taking cuttings of Chlorophytum capense, spring, summer and autumn cuttings are all relatively good.
2. Selection of cuttings
When taking cuttings of Chlorophytum capense, choosing suitable cuttings is very important. The main requirement is that the Chlorophytum capense branches are plump and fairly long, about 5-10cm. When cutting the cuttings, choose tender branches, preferably branches with terminal buds, then remove part of the leaves at the lower end of the stem, keeping only a few leaves.
3. Specific method
After the cuttings are prepared, you can carry out the cutting. Choose a round flower pot with a diameter of about 7.5cm for the cutting, and the cutting medium is generally a breathable mixed soil. Usually, multiple branches can be inserted into one flower pot. Insert the branches into the soil, and the remaining branches should be inserted in order from the center outward.
For Chlorophytum capense cuttings, rooting is generally faster when cuttings are taken in spring and summer, and roots can grow in about 2-3 weeks. However, the growth of Chlorophytum capense is relatively slow, so when taking cuttings, choose a small flower pot and fill the entire pot with cuttings. Once Chlorophytum capense begins to grow, you can apply some fertilizer to promote growth.
How to prune the branches and leaves of Chlorophytum capense
1. When pruning, you must not be too reluctant, and of course you must not be too ruthless either. Restore the plant to its original appearance, cut it back appropriately, and trim until you think it looks attractive. It has a very strong ability to recover, so there is no need to worry that cutting off branches and leaves will endanger its life.
2. When pruning, first cut off dead or damaged branches (damaged branches can be cut at any time), then cut off the side branches that affect the appearance. In short, make sure it looks attractive; do not cut the branches and leaves very evenly, but with a pleasing, staggered arrangement.
How to grow Chlorophytum capense in water
1. Selection of hydroponic container
When growing Chlorophytum capense hydroponically, choose a suitable container, preferably a transparent glass container, as this makes it easier to observe the growth condition of Chlorophytum capense, whether the water needs changing, and how the roots are growing. For hydroponics, choose a shorter container with a wider belly, as this looks better when paired with the plant. Those who are interested can also choose a fish tank and raise fish in it, so you can enjoy both the plant and the fish, getting two benefits in one. You can also choose wide-mouth glass bottles, glass cups and other containers as hydroponic vessels.
In the early stage of hydroponic cultivation of Chlorophytum capense, you can choose a small container, and as Chlorophytum capense grows, you can switch to a larger vessel.
2. Hydroponic nutrient solution
When growing Chlorophytum capense hydroponically, choosing a nutrient solution is also very important. For hydroponics, it is best to apply a special nutrient solution for soilless cultivation of foliage plants, and the water in the container can be changed every few days. In summer, you can skip the nutrient solution and just use ordinary clean water. The clean water should be left to settle beforehand, and changing the water once a week is enough.
3. Hydroponic techniques
Choose a suitable vessel and pour the prepared nutrient solution into it. Take the potted Chlorophytum capense out of the pot and remove the soil, wash the roots with clean water, cut off old leaves and old roots, and trim it so it is suitable for hydroponic use. Place the Chlorophytum capense in the vessel and arrange its shape. When growing Chlorophytum capense hydroponically, be careful not to use too much water; it is best if the water just reaches the root crown. You can apply some liquid fertilizer, but the fertilizer concentration must not be too high.
How to fertilize Chlorophytum capense
1. According to condition
Chlorophytum capense relatively needs fertilizer supply, and sufficient nutrients will also reduce its pests and diseases; when nutrients are lacking, the most obvious sign is that the leaves turn yellow. Before planting or when repotting it, you can apply sufficient fertilizer.
2. According to time
Growing season: spring and autumn are the periods when it grows most vigorously, so it needs a large amount of nutrients, which makes fertilizing very important. You can fertilize once every fifteen days.
Winter: in winter, reduce the frequency, and you can do it once a month. If the winter temperature is too low, you can stop fertilizing, and continue fertilizing after the temperature returns to normal.
Summer: fertilizing should also be paused at the highest summer temperatures. When applying fertilizer, do not give too much at once, as this can easily harm the plant. Likewise, you cannot go too long without fertilizing. Although it is a plant with a relatively high survival rate, if it lacks nutrients for a long time, it will also gradually wither.
For growing Chlorophytum capense, aside from proper daily care, pruning it is also a very necessary step. It grows very quickly, and proper pruning can keep the plant looking attractive, so gardening enthusiasts do not need to be too reluctant.