Harvesting and Fresh-keeping Methods for Cuttings of Amorpha fruticosa, an Open-field Flower

[Other Chinese names] Mianhuai

[Family and genus] Fabaceae, Amorpha

[Place of origin] North America

[Plant characteristics] Amorpha fruticosa is a clumping shrub. Plant height 1-4 m. Branches grayish blue. Odd-pinnate compound leaves alternate; leaflets 11-25, oblong.

[Cutting harvest] The harvested part is the first-year woody branch of Amorpha fruticosa, preferably 1-1.5 cm in diameter. To obtain the ideal propagation results, top branches with shorter internodes and full growth should be selected. Pay attention to reasonable cutting collection so as not to affect the plant's ornamental value and growth. The product should be pre-cooled as soon as possible.

[Grading] The harvested cuttings should be graded on the premise that they have the typical characteristics of this species, are free from pest and disease attack, and can propagate normally: Grade I cuttings are about 80 cm long; Grade II cuttings are about 70 cm long; Grade III cuttings are about 60 cm long. The length difference among cuttings of the same grade should not exceed ±2 cm of the standard.

[Packaging] Bind Amorpha fruticosa branches of the same grade in bundles of 50 each, and place them separately into breathable corrugated 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 0-2°C.

[Storage period] Treated by the above method, Amorpha fruticosa branches can usually be stored for 5-7 days without affecting their use for propagation.

[Horticultural application] Amorpha fruticosa has no strict requirements for soil, is tolerant of waterlogging, and has strong adaptability to temperature. It is quite drought-tolerant. Its branches and leaves are luxuriant and its covering ability is strong, making it a good material for greening barren hills, wetlands, riverbanks, and alkaline flats. It is not only an important nectar plant, but its branches can also be woven into baskets and crates.

[Nursery release tips] Propagating Amorpha fruticosa by cuttings is mostly carried out in spring and autumn each year. The daily management of the mother plants and the supply arrangements for cuttings should be prepared in advance.