Fuchsia Cuttings in Perlite
Why
I have tried several other methods of propagating Fuchsias, with a range of mixed results. Least successful was to use hormone rooting powder in compost, something like 55% success rate. I then tried placing the cuttings in a one inch cube of oasis ( the medium used by flower arrangers), the cuttings stand in water and eventually throw roots out of the oasis, it is then time to pot on, oasis complete with cutting into compost, quite successful, probably around 70%.
Finally I have adopted the Perlite method with a 95% success rate, maybe closer to 99%.
How
This is my illustrated explanation of how to do it so you too can root Fuchsia cuttings with the same degree of success.
What you need
All you need to have a go at this method of propagation is a small container, such as the bottom section of a lemonade bottle (illustrated), yogurt pot or ice cream tub.
Perlite, which is an inert substance often used by gardeners, readily available from Garden Centres.
The final element is Water.
Method
Place
sufficient Perlite into the Container so that it will support the cutting and
hold it in a vertical position whilst it develops a root system. You could
completely fill the container, but I prefer to add approximately one inch of
perlite, then add ordinary tap water. The container is then ready to receive
your cuttings.
The Stages in Preparation of the Fuchsia Cutting
Stage
1
First of all find a healthy growing tip on a stock plant. Remove with a sharp pair of scissors or razor blade, cut below the second pair of leaves.
The photo to the right shows a potential cutting after removal from the parent plant.
Stage 2
The lower leaves are removed, making the cut with a sharp
instrument close to the main stem.
Stage 3
A
final cut is then made to the main stem, just under where the second pair of
leaves used to be.
The remaining section is now ready to be placed in the container to root.
It is not necessary to use hormone rooting powder, cleanliness is important, the knife or scissors should be sharp enough to cut the soft tissue and not bruise it.
Stage 4
This
photograph (left) shows the tip cutting ready to be placed in the perlite and
water, handle carefully.
This cutting is then immersed up to the top pair of leaves in the water, supported by the Perlite. After 10 days the water is changed, and replaced with one quarter strength Phostrogen solution which is added to provide nutrient to the cutting. Keep out of direct sunlight.
When healthy roots appear at the bottom of the Perlite it is time to pot on into compost. Success, another Fuchsia to grow and admire for the Summer months.