Cloning a shrub using compost and cling film is a technique known as air layering. This method encourages the shrub to develop roots on a branch while it is still attached to the parent plant. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do this:
Materials Needed:
• Sharp knife or pruning shears
• Compost or sphagnum moss
• Cling film (plastic wrap)
• Twine or twist ties
• Rooting hormone (optional)
Steps:
Choose a Healthy Branch:
Select a healthy, young branch that is about the thickness of a pencil. Ideally, this branch should be about 12-18 inches long and free from any diseases or pests.
Prepare the Branch:
• About 12-18 inches from the tip of the branch, make a shallow cut about 1-2 inches long around the circumference of the branch. This should penetrate the outer bark layer but not deep into the wood.
• Remove the bark and the green cambium layer underneath to expose the white wood. This is where the roots will develop.
Apply Rooting Hormone (Optional):
• If you have rooting hormone, apply it to the exposed area. This can speed up the root development process, but it’s not strictly necessary.
Apply Compost or Sphagnum Moss:
• Soak sphagnum moss in water and then squeeze out the excess, or if you’re using compost, ensure it’s slightly moist.
• Pack a handful of the moist compost or moss around the exposed area on the branch, ensuring it covers the entire wound.
Wrap with Cling Film:
• Wrap the compost or moss tightly with cling film, ensuring that it is completely sealed. This will keep the moisture in and encourage root growth.
• Secure both ends of the cling film with twine or twist ties to keep it in place.
Wait for Roots to Develop:
• Depending on the shrub species, it can take several weeks to a few months for roots to develop. Check periodically to see if roots are visible through the cling film.
• Keep the compost or moss moist if it begins to dry out.
Cut and Plant:
• Once a healthy mass of roots has formed, use sharp pruning shears to cut the branch just below the rooted section.
• Carefully remove the cling film and plant the new shrub in a pot or directly in the ground.
Tips:
• Ensure the compost or moss stays consistently moist during the rooting period.
• This method works best in the growing season (spring or early summer) when the plant is actively growing.
By following these steps, you can successfully clone a shrub using compost and cling film through air layering.
Alternatively check out our ultimate guide to taking cuttings by clicking here