How to propagate Begonia chinensis by cuttings

1. Time for cutting

Cuttings are not season-specific and can be taken at any time of the year, but the survival rate is higher if taken in mid-June or July. This is mainly because the temperature at this time is roughly between 17 and 18 degrees Celsius, and the air humidity is also relatively high. This time is the most vigorous growth stage of Begonia, and the survival rate of cuttings will be greatly improved!

2. Cutting method

Choose the best-developed branch at the top of the bamboo begonia, which should be about 15 cm in length. The branch should have two top leaves and tender buds. Remove the excess leaves and cut it obliquely at the bamboo joint part of the branch. After cuttings, the branches should be placed in the cultivation soil. The soil is generally fresh and clean vermiculite, because it has the effect of inhibiting bacteria and has a very good moisturizing and water-permeable effect. If vermiculite is not available, you can choose coarser river sand instead, but it must be dried and disinfected before use. When taking cuttings, just insert 5 cm long branches into the culture soil. After insertion, be sure to avoid direct sunlight. At the same time, ensure the humidity of the cultivation environment and spray water once at noon when the temperature is highest. If all work goes well, it will take root in about half a month, and the temperature generally remains between 20 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius. One month after the roots have grown, you can move it into a pot and plant it. If you don't want to use soil for planting, you can also use water. Just put the cut branches in the water, but remember to change the water frequently, generally once every one or two days, and wait until the branches take root before transplanting.

three. Classification of cuttings

1. Leaf cuttings. Leaf cuttings can be done in summer or autumn, and if grown indoors, they can also be done in winter. For leaf cuttings, choose mature leaves.

2. Rhizome cuttings. This method is suitable for bamboo begonias with dense rhizomes. The time to choose is spring or autumn. Cut the rhizomes at the bottom of the bamboo begonia by 3 to 5 cm and insert them obliquely into the culture soil.