MENIFEE, CALIFORNIA\\ I've had some success with propagation in various methods. I've put some sticks directly into soil. I've used sand and even just a plain ol' glass of water! In fact, aside from the succulents and cacti cuttings, I've had the most success with this method, known as the Test Tube Method. This is what happened when I used Plastic Bottles.
It's exactly what you think it is. Place a cutting into a container of water, like a test tube, and let nature do the rest!
I tried to combine a bit of recycling with this method of reproducing plants. I usually start at the beginning but, spoiler alert, it didn't go well. In recent days, all of the cuttings I placed in these bottles have deteriorated and none of them showed signs of growth.
This post will serve as more of a postmortem as, I already have a few ideas as to why this try didn't succeed.
MENIFEE, CALIFORNIA\\ I've had some success with propagation in various methods. I've put some sticks directly into soil. I've used sand and even just a plain ol' glass of water! In fact, aside from the succulents and cacti cuttings, I've had the most success with this method, known as the Test Tube Method. This is what happened when I used Plastic Bottles.
It's exactly what you think it is. Place a cutting into a container of water, like a test tube, and let nature do the rest!
I tried to combine a bit of recycling with this method of reproducing plants. I usually start at the beginning but, spoiler alert, it didn't go well. In recent days, all of the cuttings I placed in these bottles have deteriorated and none of them showed signs of growth.
This post will serve as more of a postmortem as, I already have a few ideas as to why this try didn't succeed.
First of all, I chose to use plastic
For various reason, plastic bottles aren't ideal. They don't hold up very well. Over time, they will start to "decompose" and lose shape. It's mostly cosmetic but, it may also be an indicator of another reason to stay away from plastic bottles.
Plastic is known to leech toxins when exposed to sunlight and over long periods of time. Many experts actually recommend using glass drinking cups over plastic for the same reasons. I can't say for sure that this is what happened to the cuttings in this particular study, however, I can't imagine it helped.
I also wanted to create a "greenhouse effect" so, I cut slits into the bottle and kept the lid on. In retrospect, the cuttings may have been deprived of oxygen. My idea was to increase the temperature inside the bottle, considering that it was still early on in the Spring.
For various reason, plastic bottles aren't ideal. They don't hold up very well. Over time, they will start to "decompose" and lose shape. It's mostly cosmetic but, it may also be an indicator of another reason to stay away from plastic bottles.
Plastic is known to leech toxins when exposed to sunlight and over long periods of time. Many experts actually recommend using glass drinking cups over plastic for the same reasons. I can't say for sure that this is what happened to the cuttings in this particular study, however, I can't imagine it helped.
I also wanted to create a "greenhouse effect" so, I cut slits into the bottle and kept the lid on. In retrospect, the cuttings may have been deprived of oxygen. My idea was to increase the temperature inside the bottle, considering that it was still early on in the Spring.
Secondly, temperature and sunlight my have been inadequate
As I mentioned, this study began in the early spring. It was unusually cold this time of year. Also, I used a west facing window but, there's a 2 story house outside of it that blocks a significant amount of the sun. It's also possible that the cuttings weren't getting enough daylight.
In Conclusion
Whatever the reason, this one didn't work out. I don't think I will be using the plastic bottle for future studies. Even though, I don't believe that toxins in the plastic played a major role in the loss of these cuttings, it's not something I want to risk. Especially so when I have other methods readily available.
In another study: I placed one random cutting of a cherry tree in a plastic bottle in the greenhouse and it seems to be okay with some new leaves. So, we'll see.
More Propagation: I used recycled and sterilized glass bottles for this same method and I've already seen some positive results. See the Glass Bottle Test Tube Method post here.
As I mentioned, this study began in the early spring. It was unusually cold this time of year. Also, I used a west facing window but, there's a 2 story house outside of it that blocks a significant amount of the sun. It's also possible that the cuttings weren't getting enough daylight.
In Conclusion
Whatever the reason, this one didn't work out. I don't think I will be using the plastic bottle for future studies. Even though, I don't believe that toxins in the plastic played a major role in the loss of these cuttings, it's not something I want to risk. Especially so when I have other methods readily available.
In another study: I placed one random cutting of a cherry tree in a plastic bottle in the greenhouse and it seems to be okay with some new leaves. So, we'll see.
More Propagation: I used recycled and sterilized glass bottles for this same method and I've already seen some positive results. See the Glass Bottle Test Tube Method post here.
Send Grow Vibes 💚
Josh | #artscienceEARTH
Send Grow Vibes 💚
Josh | #artscienceEARTH
DISCLAIMER: It's fair to acknowledge that I AM NOT AN EXPERT.
I have no formal training or education regarding agriculture, horticulture, ecology or any other subjects appearing in this blog. I have access to the internet and a strong desire to constantly be learning new things. This entire blog is just as much about my own education as it is yours.
I also have a unique ability to "weed out" some of the nonsense and find reputable sources of information so, I'm confident that this information will help you understand this process. Many of the techniques that I share with you are new to me, too. More than that, it serves as an example that even if you have no experience or training, you can still have success and grow in your own garden!
Although, my intent is to share knowledge here, I treat much of this blog as a scientific journal. These are simply documents of scientific facts that I have either seen first hand are intend to recreate myself. So, please, do as much of your own research and use your own judgement with this information and embrace the journey of discovery.
"The only source of knowledge is experience." Albert Einstein
"The only source of knowledge is experience." Albert Einstein
No comments:
Post a Comment