Soft stem · MerlinYes plant guide
Before you start
Choose firm, healthy material with at least one sound node. Remove flowers and the lowest leaves, using a clean blade just below a node.
Gather a labelled pot with drainage, clean scissors and fresh propagation mix. Unwrap the cutting on arrival and check that the stem is firm and sound.
Plant-specific notes
Use a stem node with a viable bud. A leaf alone may root without producing a shoot. Wear gloves against latex and keep large leaves off the medium.
Setting up the cutting
Insert a bare node into moist, porous propagation mix. Keep in bright indirect light. For thin-leaved plants that wilt, use a vented clear cover kept clear of leaves. Avoid direct sun and saturated compost.
When to pot on
As roots form, increase ventilation gradually. Pot on once the roots hold the plug together. Harden off gradually before moving outdoors.
If something goes wrong
Wilting can come from excess heat, dehydration or a rotting base. Move into diffuse light, check the stem and adjust humidity or drainage before adding water. Discard mouldy or collapsed material.
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