Making a begonia cutting from a branch is simpler than you think: just the right branch and a little patience to give life to a new healthy and lush seedling.
You don’t need to have green thumb to multiply one begonia Successfully: the trick is all in the choice of the branch and in the attention to detail. Imagine you can get a new plant from a simple piece of stem: a small botanical miracle at hand, which does not require sophisticated tools or great knowledge. Just a few targeted measures and a pinch of attention. Many believe that the cutting is a procedure reserved for experts, but reality is very different. With the right method, even those who have never tried before can be able to make a begonia played. The key is to observe, carefully cut and respect the natural times of the plant. After all, nature knows the fact of its own: it is enough not to hinder it.
Begonia is among the most generous plants in this respect. Its decorative leaves and its rapid growth make it perfect for those who want to experiment. In addition, starting a cutting is also a way to give new life to a broken branch or pruning. What if something goes wrong? Don’t panic. Even from a failure you can learn, and it is often enough to correct a small mistake to obtain surprising results. With a little practice, a new begonia from a branch is born becomes a simple and rewarding gesture.
How to choose and prepare the right branch for Begonia cutting
Not all the branches of Begonia are suitable for becoming cutting: The initial choice makes the difference between success and failure. The ideal branch must not be too young, but neither woody. Better to opt for one semimaturowith firm consistency but still flexible. It must be cut with scissors Well sharp, preferably sterilized: a net cut, inclined to 45 degrees, promotes water absorption and prevents fungal diseases. The perfect length? About 10-12 cm, with at least two well-visible nodes.
Once the branch is selected, the lower leaves must be removed, leaving only the highest ones intact. This allows the cutting to concentrate energy on the formation of the roots. If there are flowers, they must be removed: too demanding for a plant still in the roasting phase. A little trick? Leave the cut to dry for a few hours before proceeding: a slight callus is formed that reduces the risk of rot.
The steps to make it root successfully
Once ready, the cutting should be immersed in a Wet but airy environment. The classic glass of water is perfect, as long as it is changed every 2-3 days. Better still if the water is at room temperature and left to rest 24 hours to eliminate chlorine.
The lower knot must be immersed, but never the leaves. After about 10-15 days, the first thin roots as hair will begin to appear. It is the signal that the plant is responding well.
Once the roots exceed 2-3 cm, transplantation to the ground can be proceeded. A light soil, with a good percentage of peat and perlite, will guarantee drainage and oxygenation. Never press too much: young roots are delicate.
Here is a small summary of the most important steps:
- Choose a semimaturo branch of 10-12 cm
- Cut under a node with clean scissors
- Remove the low leaves and flowers
- Let the cut dry for a few hours
- Put the cutting in clean water, changing it often
- Transplant on the ground when the roots are well developed
Once in pots, keep the barely humid soil and place the seedling in a bright but without direct sun. These attention is enough to see it grow luxuriantly.
Small secrets to have strong and healthy cuttings
Not everything ends with the transplant: this is where the most delicate phase begins. Young cuttings need stability and protection, a bit like newborn puppies. The number one enemy? The excess of water, which can rot the roots in a few hours.
An ancient but effective trick consists in covering the seedling with a cut bottle or a transparent bag, creating a small greenhouse. The humidity remains constant, but it is important to ventilate every day to avoid mold.
The light must also be carefully dosed: too direct sun can wear the leaves, too dark it slows down growth. A light window with light curtain is the ideal compromise.
What if the leaves begin to yellow? It could be a sign of stress or wrong irrigation. Sometimes it is enough to change position or adjust the water to notice improvements.
After all, every cutting has its own rhythm. Not all of them takes root in the same way, but every attempt is a small act of trust in nature.
And often, just when you think that nothing is happening, you discover a new root that appears silent from the base.
Photo © Stock.adobe and Ai
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