STRIKING CUTTINGS

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 98, 16 July 1927, Page 26

STRIKING CUTTINGS

Most gardeners find raising plants from seed an easy matter, but have not nearly such great success in propagation. This method of growing plants should not be attempted unless proper soil is available. Sand is necessary as a foundation: if working in the open, dig a drill and place sand in the bottom. Into this put the cuttings, then cover up with ordinary soil. Water should be judiciously used on cuttings. Antirrhinums, carnations and geraniums thrive best in dry conditions, but generous applications of water are needed for fuchsias, hydrangeas, and viburnums. Roses, penstemons, oleanders and azaleas like to have their feet wet, but the soil must not be sloppy. Where frames are available the soil can be prepared: but it is essential that at least 40 per cent, of sand be added to leaf-mould and loam. With the heat from the frame, germination in this sharp sand will be rapid. By this method all the plants mentioned — except roses—can be experimented upon, and petunias, bouvardias, and border begonias may be added to the list. When plants in frames take root, gradually let in sunshine and open air daily until they are ready to set in the open. Since success depends unon excluding the air from the wood, press the soil firmly at the base of the cuttings Generally a piece of last season’s wood that has flowered is best to experiment with, but with bouvardias. antirrhinums, carnations and begonias- use the tops of the old stems only.