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| Hi All
The first stage of my process of taking cuttings (starts) is now underway. I have measured out the compost (the stuff that goes in the tray - not the stuff that you allow to rot down in a corner of your garden). The measurement is 4 x 5" pots of compost to 2 x 5" pots of perlite (my perlite is fairly coarse - the coarser the better). The compost and perlite need mixing together and I find the easiest way to do this is to use a large plastic (polythene) bag add the compost and perlite and then holding the top closed shaking steadily from top to bottom until the mixing is complete (usually a minute or so). At this stage I will check for moisture in the mix by squeezing the compost, if it sticks to my hands it is too wet - if it doesn't form a ball it is too dry and if it forms a ball then falls apart in my hand when touched it is just right.If water is needed do this by using a hand spray and plain water, if too much water is in the compost add a little more perlite and let the mix stand for a day or so before re-checking. This mixed bag has been placed in the greenhouse to warm up a little (it's fairly cool here at the moment and as the compost is stored outside I find that it is better to do that. The cuttings won't appreciate cold feet and they will root better with a bit of warmth. It will be a couple of days now before the compost is warm enough to use.... bye for now Tight.... |
Follow-Up Postings:
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| This I like.. But I bet we drive you crazy with questions. Your compost, what is it composed of? A seed starting mix, sand, or? |
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- Posted by tightathome Yorks - UK (My Page) on Fri, Dec 10, 04 at 4:07
| Hi Bob and All I need to get a few bits ready today for when I have taken my cuttings. I will post some more information later when I have done this and post some more photos to show you what I have been doin. In the meantime, to answer your question Bob, this is the 'compost' I am using at the moment, a simple multi purpose compost.
Tight.... |
It has sufficient nutrients to get the roots searching for food as soon as they have formed and although some growers say that the compost should be virtually inert I have used this method for years. 
If it produces nice short cuttings and a good root system like this, I think I will stick with what I am doing… Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
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