How to propagate Araucaria

Seed propagation of Araucaria

The seed coat of Araucaria is solid, so the germination rate is relatively low. In order to solve this problem, it is best to break the seed coat before sowing to promote germination.

Before sowing, the soil should be sterilized at high temperature, or liquid agents such as carbendazim should be mixed into the soil to avoid the occurrence of diseases and pests.

It usually germinates about 30 days after sowing. During this period, the temperature should be maintained at 15-25 degrees and the humidity at 70%-80%, which is conducive to seed germination.

Cutting propagation of Araucaria

It is easier for Araucaria to survive by cutting propagation, so it is generally propagated by cutting propagation, usually in spring and summer.

Choose the main branches of Araucaria as cuttings. If you use side branches as cuttings, they will easily tilt. The length of the cuttings should be 10-15 cm. Before cuttings, you can soak the base of the cuttings in 200 ppm indolebutyric acid (IBA) for 5 hours, which will help them take root earlier.

The substrate can be made of 40% peat soil, 40% leaf mold and 20% river sand.

After cuttings, maintain the temperature at 18℃-25℃, water thoroughly, and keep the soil in the pot moist. It can be slightly dry in winter. It will take about 4 months to take root.

Precautions for propagation of Araucaria

The sown seedlings are extremely vulnerable to damage by diseases and insects, so the soil must be disinfected.

If you want to get more cuttings, you can cut the top of the young tree to make more new shoots grow from the top. Cut them in the spring and use them as cuttings. The cut plants can still continue to grow terminal buds and can be used as long-term breeding mother plants.

If the soil in the pot is too dry during the growing season, the leaves of the Araucaria will become soft and droop, so water it moderately.

The temperature in winter should not be too low. Too low temperature will cause the Araucaria to suffer from frost damage and easily die.