Above or below leaf node? - Ask Extension
This has been bugging me for quite a while because I read conflicting things on the Internet. When taking cuttings to propagate, do I cut above or bel...
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Above or below leaf node? #784152
Asked March 16, 2022, 10:10 AM EDT
This has been bugging me for quite a while because I read conflicting things on the Internet. When taking cuttings to propagate, do I cut above or below a leaf node? Does it perhaps depend on the plant? I love trying to propagate my house plants so any info you give will be appreciated. Thank you!
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
Thanks for your question.
When taking a cutting of your houseplants typically they will be a stem and leaf cutting, so when you cut off of your mother (stock) plant, you do not want to leave a large piece of stem above the node so you will be cutting just above a node. You want to be sure you have at least 2-3 nodes on the cutting you take because you will remove the bottom leaf and stick this portion into the potting mix. You can also use rooting hormone for greater rooting success; be sure to read and follow the directions.
Here is more information from Penn State Extension: https://extension.psu.edu/propagating-houseplants
Thanks for your question.
When taking a cutting of your houseplants typically they will be a stem and leaf cutting, so when you cut off of your mother (stock) plant, you do not want to leave a large piece of stem above the node so you will be cutting just above a node. You want to be sure you have at least 2-3 nodes on the cutting you take because you will remove the bottom leaf and stick this portion into the potting mix. You can also use rooting hormone for greater rooting success; be sure to read and follow the directions.
Here is more information from Penn State Extension: https://extension.psu.edu/propagating-houseplants
Thank you - I appreciate it!
On 03/21/2022 10:00 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
