Shell cypresses are ideal tub plants, which are also very suitable for edging beds or growing as bonsai. However, it is not easy to propagate this cypress species yourself in order to obtain several plants. This is how the propagation of the mussel cypress works.

The propagation of the shell cypress by cuttings is only sometimes successful

Methods to propagate clam cypress

There are two methods of propagating a clam cypress: propagation from cuttings or grafting. Both options require some expertise.

Growing new clam cypresses from cuttings is a little easier. On the other hand, only professionals can usually graft false cypresses.

Even with the right attitude and care, you have to expect that at most some of the shoots will sprout. Therefore, to be on the safe side, cut more cuttings than you actually need.

Propagation of a shell cypress by cuttings

  • Cut 15 cm long pieces diagonally
  • remove all lower leaves
  • Coat the interface with root aid
  • Put the cuttings in lean substrate
  • set up brightly without direct sun
  • keep moist but not too wet

The best time for cutting clam cypress cuttings is early spring. You can also harvest cuttings again in late summer. However, these must be overwintered frost-free.

If the cuttings produce new leaves and shoots, the propagation has worked. This can take several months.

Plant the new mussel cypresses in good time in the desired outdoor location or in a bucket.

Refining mussel cypresses

To propagate a clam cypress by grafting, you need a rootstock. A wild cypress is usually used for this. In addition, a cutting of the mussel cypress must be available.

  • Cut wild cypress 10 cm above the root
  • Cut a cutting of the same size
  • cut underlay
  • Treat cuttings with root powder
  • stick in the base
  • Wrap grafting point with raffia

Rootstock and cuttings are kept in a light, not too sunny place. Here, too, the propagation has worked if the cutting sprouts again. It can also take quite a long time to see whether the shell cypress has been successfully reproduced.

tips

Most commercially available mussel cypresses are grafted trees. You need to be extra careful when pruning. If you cut the cypress under the grafting point, only the rootstock will sprout again.

Category:

Trees