I'm still new at this so I need all the help I can get! What is the best way to root a brug, in water or soil? And then, how exactly should I do it? Also, do you root the entire cutting or leave some sticking out? I have a few rooting and it seems they are growing funny because they are growing out of the side of the cutting... Any input would be great... Thanks! Toni
Ok, I have a few questions about rooting brugs...
Check this out, groovytee http://www.brugmansias.org/startcut.html
Toni, it is quite normal for brug cuttings to send out new side shoots. In fact, many cuttings will send out new growth from a lower node and then, the cutting may shrivel up and drop off above the node with the new growth.
I have had good success with hardwood cuttings both by rooting in water and by rooting laterally in soil.
Toni I am a month into this addiction-- I got a bunch of cuttings and stuck half in water and half in soil. The water ones have put on root 'nubbies' already, while the soil ones are still working on it, and i havent seen anything. The first cutting I got a couple weeks before the big lot, I did root in soil and it has sent out several shoots and is doing well. So it seems to me that the water is the faster, but both work well. I would say look at allllll the posts on this forum and you will figure it out! i just searched the brug forum for 'rooting in water' and just plain 'rooting' and pretty much got a book on the different ways etc. good luck!
Thanks all, the reason I asked is because one that i have rooted in water, when I planted it looks like it went down hill. It is winter here and my house is dry so it could be anything. Thanks so much for the advice... and thanks for the link...
Sometimes it takes a while for them to adjust going from water to soil. I keep most of my cuttings in water until they form the white nubbies... then I pot em up.
I really like the different techniques described in the link. It also raises another question for me, though. How do you differentiate the woodier plants from the greenwood plants?
There is actually a difference in the way the "bark" looks. One is green and easily marred by a fingernail and the other looks like it is hardening up and changing to a dull, but darker color.
Just to clarify, does this apply to new cuttings as well? Or, do all new cuttings appear to be greenwood at first? Thanks!!!
New cuttings can be green or hardwood. No, not all cuttings appear green. When you look at a total brug plant next summer, you will be able to see the difference. The older a branch gets, the harder the wood gets. I hope this is what you were needing an answer for. My brain isn't working real well now between coughing and crossing my legs. LOL!!
Brugie, are you pregnant??? (I could not resist!) LOL
Michele, I'd feel better if I was pregnant. LOL!
I hope you feel better soon. :)
Speaking of feeling better, how are you doing Michele? How much longer now?
Hi Sylvia!! I am great, thanks for asking. Gave up the over nights at work but still work three nights and Sunday afternoons. I just had my six month visit Tuesday and have about 12 weeks to go. The EDA is April 5th, but I am thinking the end of May. LOL
Thanks, Brugie, that helps quite a bit. I don't believe I had any hardwood varieties this past year. I'll keep my eyes out for those characteristics with the new cuttings I received this year. I wish there were a list some where of the known different types. I just don't trust my judgement when it comes to gardening!
Wow, I didn't realize how fast time is passing, Michele! April 5, eh? Do you know if it's a girl or boy?