How to increase the survival rate of dragon bone cuttings?

The dragon bone is a spectacular and easy-to-care-for plant that is suitable for both beginners and busy gardeners. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is known for its thick stems and its lax requirements for water and nutrients. Even if you occasionally forget to water it, the dragon bone can quickly regain vitality. Today, let’s learn how to increase the survival rate of dragon bone cuttings.

1. Temperature control

The keel grows slowly when the temperature is below 10°C, so the ambient temperature should be kept above 15°C during cuttings. High temperatures are conducive to its growth, but too low temperatures should be avoided.

2. Dry the branches

Before cutting, dry the cut dragon bone branches to avoid wound infection caused by direct cutting. White liquid will flow out of the cut branches, which should be cleaned and then applied with carbendazim. Place the branches in a diffused light, well-ventilated environment to dry for at least a week, or even a month, to increase survival rate and reduce the risk of black rot.

3. Cutting operation

Use small pots and well-aerated soil for cuttings, and avoid using pots that are too deep. Insert the dried branches into the soil, water them thoroughly, and add carbendazim and rooting solution to the water to prevent infection and promote rooting. Place the grafted keel in an environment with sufficient light, high temperature and good ventilation.

4. Maintenance and management

Observe the soil in the pot. When the soil surface is dry and drops by 1-2 cm, water it thoroughly in time to promote root development. About two weeks after cuttings, the keel will begin to take root and the plant will gradually become strong again.

In general, the key to dragon bone cuttings is to maintain a suitable high temperature and dry the wound properly, which can effectively improve the survival rate of the cuttings. Through the above methods, even people who don't have dragon bones can cut branches from friends or relatives, follow these steps for cuttings, and achieve a high success rate of reproduction.