Switching Soil for Healthy Root Growth in Cloned Plants
Transplanting clones is a crucial step in the cultivation of plants, and getting it right can mean the difference between a healthy, thriving plant and a struggling one. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
Preparing the Growing Medium
The first step in transplanting clones is to prepare the growing medium. A well-aerated, well-draining medium with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 5.8 to 7.0) is ideal. Common rooting media include coco coir, peat plugs, and rockwool cubes, all of which can be pre-saturated and adjusted to a pH near 5.8 to promote root development before transplanting.
Fine texture improves aeration and moisture retention, essential to prevent root rot and facilitate rooting. Adding perlite or vermiculite can improve drainage in heavier soils. Organic amendments like worm castings or compost can enrich soil fertility. Sterilized or clean media reduces disease risk at the vulnerable cloning stage.
Choosing the Right Clone
When preparing the clone, a healthy, well-established plant with no signs of disease should be chosen. Extra branches and leaves should be removed from the cutting, except for the top. The clone should be placed in water immediately after cutting to keep it hydrated.
Transplanting the Clone
A hole should be created in the center of the soil or rockwool cube for the clone. Small or medium-sized pots with drainage holes are suitable for transplanted clones. The container should be filled with chosen medium, leaving an inch of space for water settlement.
The clone should be gently placed into the hole, with the roots covered. If using soil, it should be lightly compacted, not too tight for root growth. Mycorrhizae can optionally be sprinkled onto the exposed roots. Rooting hormones can stimulate root growth in some plants, but they are optional.
Maintaining the Right Environment
The clone should be kept in a warm area, with temperatures between 70-75°F (20-24°C). The soil or medium should remain moist, and the clone should be misted regularly. High humidity (70–90%) around cuttings prior to transplanting supports leaf transpiration and root growth.
Avoiding Intense Lighting
The clone should be placed under normal daylight or grow lights like CFLs or T5 tubes, avoiding intense lighting. It can take 7-10 days or up to 3 weeks for roots to develop. Clones prefer moist soil that drains well, and they should be watered frequently.
In terms of soil volume, a common guideline is to start clones in pots with at least triple the soil volume compared to what mature flowering plants require, allowing sufficient room for root establishment before full transplantation.
By following these guidelines, you can create the optimal environment for root establishment and healthy plant development post-transplant, ensuring your clones thrive and grow into strong, healthy plants.
References
- Rooting Clones: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Transplanting Clones: A Comprehensive Guide
- The Ultimate Guide to Transplanting Clones
- The Science of Transplanting Clones
- Sterilizing Rooting Medium for Clones
The process of transplanting clones can significantly impact a plant's health, as it requires careful preparation of the growing medium and choosing the right clone. By using a well-aerated, well-draining medium with a slightly acidic to neutral pH and selecting a healthy, well-established clone free of disease, you can create an environment conducive for root development and healthy plant growth. This guide, derived from various references such as 'Rooting Clones: A Step-by-Step Guide', 'Transplanting Clones: A Comprehensive Guide', and 'The Ultimate Guide to Transplanting Clones', offers a path towards successful vegetable gardening and a more satisfying home-and-garden lifestyle through gardening.
