Propagging the aromatic with twigs is the fastest makeup to try in August: with a simple cut in the right point, you can multiply your favorite seedlings and have fresh herbs at zero cost.
August really tests the most resistant plants: sunny sun all day, land that seems to become sand in a few hours and a heat that takes your breath away from the leaves. In the midst of this somewhat extreme scenario, the aromatic often remain on the sidelines, waiting for attention. Yet, just now that they seem to arrange, they can give a second life. Yes, because very little is enough: a sprig cut into the right point, a glass of water and that pinch of curiosity that makes the difference.
You don’t need to be experts, there are no special products or gardening tools: only clean hands, a sharp scissor and the desire to observe. Because when you see the first roots, thin and white as silk threads, it is impossible not to be fascinated. It is as if nature whispered: “Quiet, from here you can start again”.
Because August is the perfect month for the propagation of aromatic plants
Those who have already had to deal with basil or sage know: these plants know how to be generous. But not everyone realizes that August is one of the best moments to multiply them. The heat accelerates everything, even the roots. The branches are vigorous, often grown more than necessary, and many already have a slightly woody base, perfect for the cuttings. Spring is often thought to be the ideal season, and in part it is true. But summer, with his long days and fresh evenings, creates an equally favorable environment. Just choose the moment in which to cut – maybe early in the morning or sunset – and let the rest do to nature.
And then let’s face it: seeing a sprig for transforming into a new plant has a charm of its own. A small domestic experiment that gives surprising results.
Which aromatic plants multiply better with the twigs
Some aromatic seem to be born for this type of propagation. Rosemary, thyme, oregano … they are real adaptation samples. Basil, although annual, also responds very well if put in the water. It surprises, in fact, how different they can be all united by the same ability to regenerate.
- Rosemary: ideal if the branch has no flowers. A net cut and off.
- Salvia: better if the sprig is still young, not too hard.
- Timo: you need a little patience, but once you take root it is unstoppable.
- Oregano: very easy, especially in water.
- Basil: in a few days the roots are formed, ready for the earth.
The secret is all in the cut: clear, determined, just below a knot. The low leaves are removed, leaving room for the roots. And no hurry: the less it is touched, the better it is.
How to proceed step by step: water or earth?
Here opens a small debate: there are those who prefer water, who the earth. In reality they both work, but there is a particular beauty in seeing the roots that stretch into a transparent glass.
Water method:
- Cut under a knot and remove the leaves at the bottom.
- The sprig is only immersed for a few centimeters.
- The water must be changed every two or three days.
- In about a week, the first roots begin to appear.
Method on earth:
- A jar with soft and well drained soil is used.
- The sprig should be stuck in a minimum depth, just to stand.
- Light shadow and light but constant watering.
- After two or three weeks, the first signs of life start to see.
Strange or strange products are not needed: the heat of August is already half of the work.
Small tricks to increase the chances of success
Some precautions, however, can make a difference. For example, it is better to avoid the most torrid hours to pick up the cuttings: the hot heat even the best branches. If you opt for water, it is better to use a transparent container, so roots and mold are kept. Those who prefer the earth can cover the jar with a sachet, like Mini Serra Casalinga. The ground must remain humid, never soaked.
When the seedling shows the first robust roots, it can be transplanted gently into a larger pot. A little shadow for the first days, then full light. And the satisfaction of seeing that seedling grow … is priceless.
With the summer that slowly retires, and the autumn that begins to be felt, it is the right time to multiply that green and smells. Just a windowsill, a scissor and a little curiosity.
And who knows, perhaps in a few weeks, that forgotten sprig has become a new, perfumed plant.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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