STRIKING CUTTINGS

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXIII, Issue 16, 30 December 1932, Page 10

STRIKING CUTTINGS

Most gardeners hud raising plants from seed an easy matter, but have not nearly such great success in propogation. This method of growing plants should not be attempted unless proper soil is available. Sand is necessary as a foundation; if working in the open, dig a drill and place sand in the bottom. Into this put the cuttings and covrr with ordinary son. M ater should be judiciously used on cuttings. Antirrhinums, carnations and geraniums thrive best in dry conditions, but generous applications of water are needed for fuschiaa, hydrangeas and virburnums. Roses, penstemons, and azaleas like to have their feet wet, but the soil must not be sloppy. Mhere frames are available the soil can be prepared; but it is essential that at least 40 per cent, of sand be added to leaf mould and loam. With the heat from the frame, germination in this sharp sand will be rapid. By this method all the plants mentioned—except roses — can be experimented upon, and petunias, bouvardias and border btgonias may be added to the list. When plants in frames take root, gradually let in sunshine and open air daily until they are ready to set in the open. Since success depends upon excluding air from the wood, press the soil firmly at the base of the cuttings. Generally a piece of last season’s wood that has flowered is best to experiment with, but with antirrhinums, carnations and fuschias use the tops of the old stems only.