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Like many plants,
cloning of cannabis is possible though
technically more laborious and somewhat
challenging, due to the cleanliness
required. The process itself is quite
similar to the cloning of most other
plants and involves rooting branch
cuttings from donor plants. Cutting are
taken and the large leaves near the
bottom of the plant are removed to
minimize transpiration and the cutting
is allowed to heal before being immersed
in a a dilute solution of high
phosphorus fertilizer (10-50-10). While
keeping the cutting under the solution,
a 45 degree cut is made to the "root"
end of the cutting using a clean knife
that has been sterilized with bleach.
This procedure prevents air bubbles from
forming in the xylem of the stem which
may affect water and nutrient uptake.
Using a clean knife minimizes infection
risks, which can wipe out a number of
clones quickly.
Rooting hormone
gels or powder mixes are
then applied to the cut to promote root
growth and inhibit fungal infection.
Growth trays with good drainage, filled
with a moistened loose organic medium
such as vermiculite and perlite is used
allow the cuttings to root. Another
option is to start clones in rockwool
cubes, which allow transplanting without
disturbing fragile root systems.
Sterilization of the medium by baking or
steaming is preferred. The cuttings are
then inserted into the loose medium, and
then must be continuously kept in a dim,
moist, and humid environment under a
plastic covering for up to two weeks
such that they have a chance to heal and
form roots. During the first week the
cutting should not be watered unless the
medium becomes dry, and even then, it
should be done with discretion. A weak
solution of high phosphorus fertilizer,
usually sold as flowering promoting
fertilizers, can be applied to the
cutting in the second week since the
phosphorus helps the rooting process,
which will help in producing strong
plants.
If performed
correctly, the cuttings should stay
green during their rooting time, and
condensation should appear on the
plastic coverings for the cuttings,
which indicates proper humidity.
Drooping and browning of the cuttings
likely indicate too much sunlight, too
little humidity, cutting rotting in
sitting water, or unsanitary cloning
conditions.
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