It was more than 5 million years ago when a fern spore drifted on tradewinds to settle upon these islands. Fern spores were some of the first plant parts to inhabit these large volcanic rocks in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
As the rocks began to break down from exposure to sunlight and water, they created soil and growing spaces for the more than 1,000 native plant species that would arrive on wind, wing or water and thrive.
Propagation is a natural form of regeneration in our native ecosystem. Knowledge of how to propagate plants in your own backyard can be an affordable way to expand your garden and share plants with others in the community.
Question: How do I propagate a succulent?
Answer: Jade, snake plant and the many varieties of succulent plants can be propagated by leaf cuttings. Leaf cuttings are a simple form of propagation that requires one entire leaf, the leaf blade and the petiole (leaf stem). The leaf is inserted into the medium vertically.
This type of propagation requires high-humidity conditions, which can be provided using a small wooden box or container covered lightly with recycled clear plastic that is ventilated for air circulation.
The original leaf decays and is discarded once the roots and new leaves form on the propagated plant.
Q: Can I use my backyard soil to propagate plants?
A: No. The clay soils that dominate older islands do not drain well and are not sterile. Stem, leaf and root cuttings require a mixture of peat moss, vermiculite and perlite. Starting plants from seeds requires a mixture of sterilized sand, vermiculite or perlite, and peat moss. Both mixtures are available at garden centers.
Q: I have a few seed packets I would like to use. How do I sow the seeds?
A: In general, seed packets are labeled with instructions. However, a few tips will help you be more knowledgeable about the process. One rule of the green thumb is to plant the seed at a depth that is 1.5 times the diameter of the seed. Seeds should be sown in a container that drains well, has access to full sun (six hours) and can be misted with water to keep the soil-less medium moist throughout the day.
The first growth you will see is called the seed cotyledons, which are the seed leaves. It is not time to transplant until you see the first true leaves, which grow above or between the cotyledon leaves. A commercial pre-mixed potting medium that includes peat, perlite and slow-release fertilizer can be used when transplanting.
Careful observation and monitoring for pests will add to the success of your new plants.
More tips on plant propagation can be found by accessing the School Garden Basics lessons at www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/UHMG/school.asp. Click on “Let’s Plant!”
On Oahu, University of Hawaii Master Gardeners are focusing educational outreach efforts on school garden educators and volunteers. Visit our list of educational outreach events at www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/ougc.
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Jayme T. Grzebik is the statewide coordinator for the UH Master Gardener program. Contact your local UH Master Gardener by visiting www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/UHMG.
