How to Clone Plants

Cloning plants are the easiest way to reproduce them without using seeds.

The process involves reproducing a new plant from cuttings that will grow and develop their own root system. Popular plants that can be cloned include runners and tubers like potatoes. 

Any branch, root, stem, flower or leaf has a genetic blueprint of the parent plant. These can then be reproduced in another location and can grow and develop in the right conditions.

Materials Needed:

Containers

Choose a container that has enough room to hold the size of the plant once it matures. You also need to decide how many cuttings you will place in the same container.

Plant pots or translucent cups or containers with appropriate holes at the bottom can work. This will enable you to see the roots as they begin to come up.

Choosing Soil

Soil or rock wool is necessary for cuttings to take toot. Compost, starting- mix, or potting soil can be used to help cultivate the clone.

Ordinary garden soil is not recommended for cloning.

Rockwool takes a bit more effort and preparation. First, you’ll need to dampen the soil with water and let it absorb overnight. 

Should I go Organic or use Root Hormones?

You can decide whether you wish to clone organically or use root hormones to help stimulate root growth.

Hormones

Plants have their natural hormones that help them develop a certain amount of leaves and roots.

Root hormones contain synthetic stimulators that mimic the natural pant substances.

There are some plants, like tomatoes, which produce large amounts of natural plant hormones and are easier to clone.

While some plants may need a little help, the down-side is that some hormones may do more harm than good if used indiscriminately.

Organic

Natural soil additives can include diluted apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and willow tea.

Planting Stems

Prepare the soil

Before you plant the stems, you need to prepare the soil. If you use rock wool, insert the block into the container. Gradually cut a hole in the middle of the block to accommodate the correct size of the plant.

For soil mix, fill the container up to the top, then bore a hole right through the middle and continue to the bottom. Wet the soil, but be careful not to saturate it.

Cut the Stem

Cut the stems diagonally with a sharp scissors or knife. It’s best to use a stem that grows on the side of the plant (lateral) rather than from close the ground (terminal). 

After clipping the stem, clear the base of any flowers or leaves. Flowers or leaves left on the stem will sap the water supply from reaching the roots.

Apply root hormone in powder or liquid form where appropriate. For the powder, dip the stem in a little water and lightly apply the powder so that it adheres to the bottom of the stem. 

Never coat the entire stem in the powder or dip it in the liquid. Next, place at least 1/3 of the stem into the hole in the rock wool.

Cover:

Cover the container with glass or plastic to help retain the moisture, and allow the plant to thrive while the roots develop.

Keep the container in a warm place with a little sunlight. Too much direct sunlight may destroy the cutting.

Sprinkle the plant every day with a little water to keep it moisturized. You should begin to see results in about two weeks.