I have a stalk growing to the side of the main plant, and need advice as to what I can do now, and how to do it. In another thread, probably Monika's, I think she said to cut off the stalk and cover the top leaves with a plastic bag to retain moisture and thereby have condensation. What I need to know is, should I cut it now (soft green), or let it continue growing? I thought it maybe should be cut now since I want to make a standard from it and want to avoid it developing a y too soon. Or, would cutting it now cause it to y?
Just finished weeding all rose beds and I'm dripping with perspiration and blood. My arms are cut to pieces and I have a special luncheon to attend tomorrow. Hmm, going to need long sleeves for a predicted 90 degree day.
Tussee
Need clarification on stalk cutting
My opinion would be to let it grow a while. Maybe when it hits three or four ft tall, cut it. You can let them get taller than that if you want. I just like to have the part I'm going to cut, look a little woody. They seem to root easier for me. JMO.
Thank you, Shirley. I find it interesting the older wood roots better than the fresh.
Tussee
Oh Tussee, I have started so many that are suckers; they make the best standards along with seedlings. I did a thread on how I do it.
http://davesgarden.com/forums/t/554205/
I used to use a plastic bag on top but now do not leave enough leaves on to warrant a plastic bag. And if it is very hot where you are, the plastic bag can steam cook the top. The sucker in the thread above went from being cut with no real leaves to one with huge buds in 2 months.
I have found that if you leave the sucker on the mother plant, it will grow tall more rapidly then if you sever it and root it. I have not noticed they Y sooner or later. So I prefer to leave mine attached until they are the height I want.
Before you do cut it off, make sure you really water the mother and sucker plant very well the day before. You want the sucker well hydrated for the moisture in it must maintain the sucker till it is rooted and can get more on its own. Try not to do it when the plant is stressed or when it is too hot. Always put the severed sucker in the shade to preserve the moisture as long as possible. And though you so not keep the soil saturated when rooting, I often will mist the entire stalk.
GOOD LUCK! It is really easy!
Yes, it is real easy for you and Shirley! Remember, I am the one who cannot germinate seeds, only mold. :)
I have tucked this thread in my file and I truly appreciate both of you taking the time to explain what to do.
Tussee
Not that long ago, I took Kell's advice from the link and I now have a wonderful standard growing. It's only about 5' tall but so happy and will "y" and bloom this season. I'll post a pic once he blooms.