How to Propagate Carnations from Cuttings? Detailed Step-by-Step Illustrated Tutorial
Selecting branches: Choose healthy new-growth branches and cut below a node. Propagation process: Poke holes in the soil, place the young plants in, press down gently, water thoroughly, and keep in a shaded spot. Transplanting into pots: After rooting in about 2 months, move the young plants into pots, make a wire frame to support the branches, and care for them as normal.
1. Selecting Branches
For cuttings, choose thick, healthy new shoots, cut a branch about 10cm long starting below a node, remove the lower leaves and keep 3-4 pairs of leaves, and make the cut slightly slanted, which helps rooting and water uptake.
2. Propagation Process
First use a chopstick or other tool to poke holes in the soil, place the young plants into the small holes, press gently with your fingertip to firm the soil. When done, water the soil thoroughly and keep it in a shaded spot while waiting for roots to form.
3. Transplanting into Pots
Roots will form in about 2 months. Choose larger-grain perlite as the substrate, transplant the young plants into suitable pots, and use wire or similar to shape the branches, then care for them as normal.