Propagating camellia cuttings

Описание: Camellias thrive in mild, humid climates, shielded from the wind, and prefer a semi-shaded exposure. Their blooming period spans from October to May, depending on the variety. Propagation via cuttings is best conducted at the end of summer. Herein, Hubert Fontaine provides detailed instructions on how to accomplish this task.

*Necessary Equipment for Camellia Cuttings*
The optimal time to propagate camellias is late summer, coinciding with the stage of maturity known as "augmentation," when the cuttings root more easily. Essential equipment includes:
A grafting knife
A clean, sharpened pruning shear
A mini-greenhouse
A pot with drainage holes, 10 cm in diameter
Clay pebbles
A mixture consisting of one-third heather soil, one-third ready-to-use special seedling compost, and one-third sand
Rooting hormone
A spray bottle and a small dibble

*Steps for Propagating Camellia Cuttings*
1. Place the clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot.
2. Cover with the soil mixture.
3. Pre-moisten the soil before taking the cutting.
4. Early in the morning, extract a 15 cm (6 inches) shoot.
5. Remove the leaves located at the lower part of the shoot.
6. Using the grafting knife, cut the bottom of the shoot at an angle.
7. Dip the cut end of the shoot into the rooting hormone.
8. Create a preliminary hole with the dibble and place the cutting 2 to 3 cm deep.
9. Firmly tamp down around the cutting.
10. Mist the leaves with non-calcareous water from the spray bottle.
11. Place the pot within the mini-greenhouse.
12. Add a small amount of water to the greenhouse tray before covering it.
13. Cover with burlap to ensure the cuttings remain shaded during the rooting process.

By adhering to these guidelines, one can successfully propagate camellias, ensuring their health and growth in appropriate conditions.