From Clue number 1:
1. Is there something that I need to look for to determine when a leaf flush is about to happen?
In the spring this occurs just before bud break. In the summer this occurs during the month of July in my area. You will see certain parts of the tree resuming their vigorous new growth during one of the flush cycles. When you see that on the tree......look for one that has not yet opened its tip bud.
2. Do you start your water bottles when you put your cuttings in a bag, so that the algae can get a head start?
Not going to discuss how to use Algae in this thread. That will be too complicated for most people, I will discuss that subject later in another thread. As a young chemist I spent a good bit of time dealing with algae problems......so I know more than the average Joe about Algae. It can be used to one's advantage during rooting. But, it can be problematic too if yoiu don't know what you are doing.
From Clue number 3:
1. Do you put any water in the quart jar or are you just using that for support and protection in case the bag leaks?
Water is only in the bag. The jar is only for support and if the bag leaks. The bag stays OPEN and not closed.
2. What is the purpose of the plastic bag in the quart jar?
Creates a high humidity and "open" environment. Do not close the bag.
3. How long does it normally take for the stems to fall off?
It depends on the variety. Usually a week or two.
From Clue number 4:
1. Have you experimented with water temperatures at this stage? Example: Putting some bottles in direct sunlight for a few hours outside and comparing those to the ones inside in the window? Outdoor temps vs Indoor temps
Nope. I have literally tons of experiments to conduct before I am satisfied with this particular method. It works well enough to begin sharing the method at this point.
About how long does it take to see root initials on the cuttings once they are in the plastic bottles in the window?
Not long....remember the cuttings were in some oxygenated water before they were placed in the window.
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Next clue......
When you see root initials form on those cuttings. You can place them in peat pots and root as I have directed in other thteads/posts.
HOWEVER, we will not do that. We will do something completely different. We are going to take advantage of the fact that this is a summer cutting. We are going to make photosynthesis work to our advantage during this rooting process. And we will produce some roots and leaves that are almost already harden off. We are going to take advantage of the "adaptability" of ficus Carica to its immediate environment.
Much more later......
Dan
Semper Fi-cus