The Gardener's Almanac

This is method is applied when taking cuttings from Carnations and Pinks.   Cuttings may be taken when the plant is still flowering providing you select non- flowering or budded shoots.   The cutting is taken by gripping the tip of a non flowering shoot and pulling it firmly upwards to break it out of the leaf joint below.

Remove the lower leaves,and dip the end of the cutting in rooting powder/gel (optional) then insert it vertically in pots/trays filled with moist seed/cutting compost.

 

Place the pot / tray in a warm place, preferably with bottom heat.

 

A soil temperature of around 16°C (60°F) and a minimum air temperature of 4°C (40°F) is ideal.

 

Give the cuttings plenty of light, but ensure that they are not scorched by direct sunlight.

 

Spray cuttings at least once per day with either fresh water or a fungicide mixture to prevent dehydration.

 

A sign that they have rooted is, the growing tip will be a ‘fresh’ green colour.

 

Pot on into 75 mm (3") pots of potting compost when rooted.