Done, the first roots are gradually forming on your cuttings. The cultivation was successful. Subsequent care is very important so that strong and robust growth can develop from the tender young plants. The fertilizer application, for example, is very important. Read here how the right nutrients help your cuttings to grow healthily.
Cuttings should only be fertilized when they are well established
When to start fertilizing?
Cuttings are shoots that you take from any plant. Most of the time it is the tip of the shoot, which accordingly has no roots of its own. Early fertilization would therefore be in vain, since the young cuttings are initially not able to absorb nutrients from the soil. The first application of fertilizer should only take place after acclimatization. This is the time when you repot the cuttings for the first time to slowly get used to the later site conditions. An illustrative example is rearing in a water glass. As soon as the first roots have formed, plant the cuttings in potting soil. From this point on, the first fertilization can take place.
When this point is reached depends entirely on the plant variety that you are propagating with the cuttings. Each species has a different germination time. External factors also play a role.
Note: Be sure to choose nutrient-poor substrate to pot your young cuttings. Sharp soil, already enriched with fertilizer, will harm the tender roots. Caution is required, especially with conventional potting soil from the hardware store. Often these products do not meet the needs of young shoots. Rather spend a little more money for high-quality potting soil.
Which fertilizer is suitable?
The first fertilization is best done with a complete nutrient fertilizer. As soon as the roots are strong enough to absorb nutrients, it provides the delicate young plants with everything they need for healthy growth. Make sure you buy good quality here as well.