Detailed Explanation of Rubber Plant Cutting Methods and Propagation Steps
The rubber plant (Ficus elastica) originates from Brazil and is now widely cultivated in tropical regions of Asia. In China, it is cultivated in Taiwan, China, southern Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan and southern Yunnan, with more planting in Hainan and Yunnan. It is commonly propagated by cuttings. The cutting operation is simple, it roots very easily and grows fast. Let's take a look at the rubber plant cutting methods below!
Rubber Plant Cutting Preparation
The cutting time for rubber plant is in late spring and early summer, when the air humidity is relatively high and the cuttings easily survive. It can be done together with pruning. The quality of rubber plant cuttings directly affects the cutting survival rate. Generally, thick and strong branches from the previous year whose surface is not completely lignified are selected as cuttings. This kind of branch has relatively sufficient nutrients, so it roots easily and also has strong disease resistance. The length of the cutting is based on retaining 3 buds. Cut off one leaf below, bring the two upper leaves together, and tie them well with thin plastic rope to reduce leaf surface evaporation.
Rubber Plant Cutting Method
Rubber plant cuttings are inserted into a cutting bed with plain sandy soil or vermiculite as the substrate. After insertion, keep the cutting bed at relatively high humidity, but do not let water accumulate. The suitable temperature is 18-25°C. Frequently sprinkle water on the ground to increase air humidity, and do a good job of shading and ventilation. Roots can form in about 2-3 weeks. After potting, place in a slightly shaded place, and gradually increase light after new buds sprout.
Rubber Plant Water Cutting Method
Rubber plant water cutting is usually in late April or early May. Cut healthy old rubber plant stems into small sections of 10-12 cm as cuttings, leaving 2-3 nodes on each section. The cut is best made above and below the bud, and the leaves are cut off. Then put the cuttings into empty glass jars, about 10 or more per jar, filling them up. Pour 25ppm ABT rooting liquid into the jar so that 1/2 of the cuttings are immersed in the solution. After soaking for 20-24 hours, pour out the rooting liquid and replace it with clean water. After that, change the clean water once every 2-3 days and place indoors. After about 10 days, small white spots, which are the sprouting root tips, emerge from the cortex of the water-soaked rubber plant branches. After the roots grow out, growth is very rapid, and the buds at the top of the cuttings also begin to sprout. They can be potted in 20 days.