Baitfisherman
Registered:1275395106 Posts: 5
Posted 1482070308
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#1
So I was able to get my Hardy Chicago onto the three season porch before the temp went into the low 20s. But I was unable to cover the one that has been in the garden for 9 years and usually freezes to the ground. I cut the nice long shoots off at the snow line and I would like use them as cuttings. I usually cut them I march off my stored potted plants and I would like to know if I am able to store them until Feb or March. Any storage tips are appreciated.
pverdes3
Registered:1470833006 Posts: 67
Posted 1482071411
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#2
Here is what I would do for longer term storage. Cut to 6-8 inches, wash in diluted bleach+water, let them air dry. Then close both cut ends with candle wax or wood sealent. Roll cuttings in a moist paper towel, Put them in a zip lock bag and into crisper drawer in fridge.
__________________Gabriel - Hungary - zone 6b/7a Wish list: Izbat an Naj, Ice Crystal, Tashkent
FiggyFrank
Registered:1347560723 Posts: 2,712
Posted 1482071428
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#3
Yes. Clean the cuttings, using something like an old toothbrush to remove any dirt and residual grime. This part is optional, but you can mix a 1/10 bleach/water solution and quickly dip the cutting. Then, let them air dry for about 10 minutes. Using cling wrap, tightly wrap the cutting and try to prevent any air pockets, as this will allow moisture to form and potentially promote rot. Then, store the cuttings in two zip-lock bags and store in the refrigerator. They should be viable for at least 7 months. This video gives you a better idea on how to clean them.
__________________ Frank zone 7a - VA
Baitfisherman
Registered:1275395106 Posts: 5
Posted 1482072248
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#4
Thank You Guys! My day is made!
EJP115
Registered:1477108500 Posts: 2
Posted 1482079979
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#5
I would highly suggest doing what Frank does! I have received 3 different sets of cuttings from him this year and all of them rooted and rooted very quickly. Even the MvsB which I had heard would be difficult to root.
DevIsgro
Registered:1420826837 Posts: 637
Posted 1482168387
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#6
Frank, do they root better if stored for a while, or does it not make a difference?
__________________ Currently growing 50-60 varieties, this season's cuttings dependant. Hopefully I'll get to taste a few more this year...
FiggyFrank
Registered:1347560723 Posts: 2,712
Posted 1482181492
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#7
Quote:
Originally Posted by DevIsgro Frank, do they root better if stored for a while, or does it not make a difference?
No. The cuttings slowly lose more energy while they sit. You'll always have better success if rooting soon after pruning. But again, I've rooted cuttings that were over 7 months old, but proper storage is key.
__________________ Frank zone 7a - VA
DevIsgro
Registered:1420826837 Posts: 637
Posted 1482182978
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#8
Alright thank you! My intuition said that would be the case, but as I hadn't tried it I was uncertain. Thanks for clearing that up.
__________________ Currently growing 50-60 varieties, this season's cuttings dependant. Hopefully I'll get to taste a few more this year...