Encanto Farms Nursery > Categories > I Probably Just Killed My First Cuttings

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LeanderFig

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Posts: 59

So I finally got some cuttings to send out some decent roots, and shoots. I thought I would pot up 3 of them today. I put them in a nice light textured potting mix. But my problem is, I think I over watered them. After putting the soil in, I watered them in like I do any plant. After reading more post, that seemed like too much water. I put plastic bags over them to keep the small leaves from drying out. So what are my chances that they will not mold?

jrdewhirst

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Posts: 91

Make sure there is a drainage hole (or holes).  The excess water will flow through the medium and out the hole(s).  The cuttings will be fine.

Cut a corner off the plastic bag for ventilation.  That'll prevent excess humidity.

When you think the roots are well enough developed, take the bag off for a few hours.  If you get wilting, put it back and try again in a couple days.  If you don't, then leave it off.  Note that a plant with good roots and no bag will require more watering.  But with a well draining medium, you can rely on the drainage holes to prevent overwatering. 

pverdes3

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Posts: 67

If you have roots they will be probably fine. They rot when there are no roots yet. The light mix helps with drainage, so I guess you will be ok. Dont worry and keep an eye on them. Good luck and happy holidays.

LeanderFig

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Posts: 59

Wow! Thanks for the quick replies! There are large holes in the bottom of the pots, so lots of drainage. Even if the bottom of the bag is open, I should cut the corners out of the bags?

chucklikestofish

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Posts: 1,316

[QUOTE=jrdewhirst]Make sure there is a drainage hole (or holes).  The excess water will flow through the medium and out the hole(s).  The cuttings will be fine.

Cut a corner off the plastic bag for ventilation.  That'll prevent excess humidity.

When you think the roots are well enough developed, take the bag off for a few hours.  If you get wilting, put it back and try again in a couple days.  If you don't, then leave it off.  Note that a plant with good roots and no bag will require more watering.  But with a well draining medium, you can rely on the drainage holes to prevent overwatering. [/QUOTE]~well answered ,thanks ~

jrdewhirst

Registered:
Posts: 91

[QUOTE=LeanderFig]Wow! Thanks for the quick replies! There are large holes in the bottom of the pots, so lots of drainage. Even if the bottom of the bag is open, I should cut the corners out of the bags?[/QUOTE]

It may not matter if the bag is open.  I usually hold the bag in place with a rubber band, then put a vent hole in an upper corner.  It may be a bit OCD but it just seems likely to produce a more consistent result.