Fiddle Leaf Rescue, Cut Each Branch and Propagate into 4?
by jacksofscience
Fiddle Leaf Rescue, Cut Each Branch and Propagate into 4?
by jacksofscience
3 Comments
Found this fiddle leaf on the side of the road, in dire straits. Has been holding on in this spot for a few years, but it sure is ugly and lopsided! When is the right time to cut and propagate each branch?
Imo it looks like the growth on it is in good shape, so I’d say it seems healthy enough to do stuff.
If you want it to bush out, you need to do something to promote backbuds. Pinching new leaves coming out the ends is an option, “notching” the branches is another. Maybe a bit of both.
If you don’t want a big bushy thing and essentially want to start over, this is *easily* 5 plants. Each branch can be a new one, plus the main trunk will probably be fine and start over. It can definitely still grow and will want to put out new leaves if you cut the old ones off. Realistically, you only need about 3 nodes to get propagation, so technically all your branches could likely be more than 1 if you *really* wanted.
General – if you give em a good shake every now and then, it helps the branches grow more upwards. Basically just simulates wind. When branches bend and sway in the wind, it causes microfractures, the plant heals the microfractures, it strengthens them, kind of like doing body-weight exercises to strengthen your core.
I suggest chopping all branches off(may put them in water for rooting)..just keep a stump(丫⇒ |)..it’ll bud in several weeks+ ..this tropical plant needs sunlight so much..so move closer to sliding doors or place it outdoor during this Summer(temperature not below 1x°C/5x°F)..water it thoroughly each time(water it once every 10-14days)..and don’t keep excess water in transparent saucer after watering,because this water can cause root rot