A citrus plant is an extremely worthwhile plant. Its scent, fruit yield and general appearance make the tree a popular possession. To be precise, you can't have enough specimens of this plant. Then why not just take cuttings and root them in water? Here you can read how the propagation is successful.
How to root citrus cuttings in water?
To root citrus cuttings in water, choose a semi-lignified shoot 10-15 cm long, with at least two buds and pairs of leaves. Cut the shoot at an angle and put it in a glass of water. Increase humidity by misting daily until roots form.
Choice of cuttings
Unlike sowing, propagation through cuttings is, so to speak, a cloning of the mother plant. Your new specimen will resemble the original plant in all its properties. Basically, it is possible to take a cutting from every citrus tree. However, if you have stunted growth, this is not recommended for the reason mentioned. Therefore, choose a he althy mother plant with many positive properties.
Requirements for the cutting
For rooting to succeed in water, the cutting must have the following properties:
- half woody shoot from the previous year
- at least 10 to 15 cm long
- at least two buds and two pairs of leaves
Cut cuttings
If the selected mother plant has the appropriate requirements, you can take as many cuttings as you want. However, remember that the young shoots represent important carbohydrate stores for the citrus plant. Every cut weakens the tree.
In order not to cause damage to the mother plant and to make it easier for pests to penetrate, you may only use sterile, sharp tools. A clean cut is essential. Do not saw or tear off the shoot. Such wounds heal slowly and poorly. You should also position the knife at a slight angle. A slanted interface makes it easier for the cutting to absorb water later.
Root formation in water
Now put the cutting in a glass with fresh water. Since the young shoots without roots cannot yet absorb liquid, it is important to ensure there is enough humidity so that the young plants can quench their thirst through the air. To do this, spray the leaves daily. Only when small roots form do the cuttings benefit from the fresh water that surrounds them. Soon your young plants will be ready to be transplanted into the bed.
