How to propagate Rieger begonia by cuttings? Detailed explanation of the potted cutting method

  Rieger begonia (Begonia × hiemalis) is deeply loved by everyone for its large and brilliant flowers. This flower can not only be used as cut flower material, but can also be grown as a potted plant for ornamental purposes. Potted Rieger begonia is generally propagated into young plants through cuttings, and cuttings are divided into stem cuttings and leaf cuttings. No matter which method is used, each has its own advantages, and both are relatively easy to root successfully.

  So, how do you take cuttings from potted Rieger begonia? If using stem cuttings, first select robust growing branches as the cuttings, and the length of the cuttings should be moderate, neither too long nor too short; if using leaf cuttings, you likewise need to select robust growing leaves, so as to ensure they root easily and survive. Here, the editor will use stem cuttings as an example to share with everyone.

  1. Select strong branches with very plump internodes as the cuttings, generally cutting branches from mature plants that have successfully passed through summer. Before cutting branches from the mother plant, it is recommended to first prune the mother plant once, then apply fertilizer once, so that the mother plant that has passed through summer quickly sprouts new branches, and we can cut off the robust new shoots that sprout as cuttings.

  2. During the process of cutting branches, we should pay attention to ensuring that the cut branch not only has a terminal bud, but also retains 3-5 internodes, using a stem segment about 5-10 cm long as one cutting. Afterward, the leaves on the lower half of the cutting need to be removed, while 1-2 leaves can be kept on the upper half to reduce water evaporation from the cutting, which is more conducive to survival.

  3. After preparing the cuttings, prepare the cutting medium, with loose and breathable as the baseline. The main medium should preferably be vermiculite or plain sand soil, and before use it is recommended to first disinfect it. Then pour the culture soil into the flower pot, and insert the cuttings.

  4. After completing the cutting of Rieger begonia cuttings, move the entire flower pot to a cool place for care and management. After that, what needs to be done well is the moisture retention work in the pot. In order to achieve the moisture retention effect and at the same time increase the survival rate of the cuttings, it is recommended to cover the flower pot with plastic film, and pay attention to observing the dry and wet conditions of the soil in the pot, and replenish water in a timely manner.

  The cutting method for potted Rieger begonia is relatively simple, roughly the above steps. But in order to improve the survival rate of the cutting seedlings, we also need to conscientiously do well in each of the above steps and manage each link well. (Author: Xiaoshu 2017-08-28 22:15)