Propagation of monkey cup plants, also known as monkey jar plants, is commonly done through cuttings. This method involves removing a 10 to 15cm long shoot from the central stem of the plant. By cutting between two leaves, the plant is essentially “decapitated,” creating a new cutting that can be grown into a new plant.
To ensure successful propagation, it is important to take certain steps. Firstly, select a healthy and mature monkey cup plant from which to take the cutting. Look for a strong central stem with fresh growth and vibrant leaves. This will increase the chances of the cutting rooting successfully.
Once a suitable shoot is identified, use a sharp and clean pair of pruning shears or scissors to make the cut. It is important to make a clean and precise cut to minimize damage to the plant. After removing the shoot, it is recommended to remove excess leaves to reduce the transpiration area and limit water loss.
To do this, carefully cut all the leaves in half, except for the top two leaves. This will help the cutting conserve energy and focus on root development rather than maintaining excessive foliage. Additionally, cutting the leaves in half can reduce the risk of water loss through transpiration, as the smaller leaf surface area minimizes evaporation.
After preparing the cutting, it is advisable to dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel. This helps promote root growth and increases the chances of successful rooting. Rooting hormone can be found at garden centers or online and is typically easy to use according to the product’s instructions.
Next, prepare a suitable rooting medium for the cutting. A well-draining mix of peat moss and perlite or vermiculite is commonly used. Fill a small pot or container with the rooting medium and create a hole in the center to place the cutting. Gently insert the cut end of the shoot into the hole, ensuring it is firmly in contact with the rooting medium.
Once the cutting is planted, lightly water the rooting medium to provide moisture. It is important not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to rotting. Place the pot or container in a warm and humid environment, ideally with indirect sunlight. A plastic bag or a clear plastic dome can be used to create a mini greenhouse effect, retaining moisture around the cutting.
Regularly monitor the cutting for signs of growth, such as new leaf development or root formation. Mist the cutting with water occasionally to maintain humidity levels. It is important to keep the rooting medium slightly moist but not waterlogged.
After a few weeks, the cutting should start developing roots. Once a healthy root system has formed, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground, depending on the desired location for the monkey cup plant.
Propagating monkey cup plants through cuttings involves selecting a healthy shoot, making a clean cut, reducing the transpiration area by cutting leaves in half, using rooting hormone, planting in a well-draining medium, providing adequate moisture and humidity, and transplanting once roots have developed. Following these steps can increase the chances of successful propagation and the growth of new monkey cup plants.
