Harvesting and Fresh-Keeping Methods for Outdoor Oleander Cuttings

[Other Chinese Names]Dajiezhong, Jiaochudong, Jiujiezhong, Juna, Liuyetao, Shuigancao

[Family and Genus]Apocynaceae, Nerium

[Place of Origin]Nepal, India, Iran and other places

[Plant Characteristics]Oleander is an evergreen shrub or small tree. Plant height 5-6 m. It has milky sap. Simple leaves are whorled or opposite, linear-lanceolate, 10-25 cm long, entire, leathery.

[Cutting Harvest]The harvested part is the current-year branches of oleander. Harvesting should be carried out from May to July each year. In order to obtain ideal propagation results, top branches with shorter internodes and full growth should be cut, and this operation is best combined with shaping. The product should be precooled as soon as possible.

[Grading]The harvested cuttings should be graded on the premise that they have the typical characteristics of the variety, are free from pest and disease infestation, and can propagate normally: the length of grade-one cuttings is about 60 cm; the length of grade-two cuttings is about 50 cm; the length of grade-three cuttings is about 40 cm. The length difference among cuttings of the same grade should not exceed the standard of plus or minus 2 cm.

[Packaging]Bind oleander branches of the same grade and variety in bundles of 10 each, and place them separately into breathable perforated corrugated cardboard boxes lined with film and marked with the product name.

[Fresh-Keeping Method]The cuttings can be stored in an environment with a relative humidity of 90%-95% and a temperature of 5-7°C.

[Storage Period]Treated according to the above method, oleander branches can usually be stored for 3-5 days without affecting their use for propagation.

[Garden Application]Oleander grows vigorously and has a very long flowering period. It is mostly planted in the ground in southern regions, while in northern China it is mostly grown in pots for ornamental viewing.

[Nursery Release Tips]Propagating oleander by cuttings is mostly carried out from May to July each year. Daily management of the mother plants and supply arrangements for cuttings should be prepared in advance.