Pistikut

Pistikut is a term used in horticulture to describe a piece of a plant, typically a shoot tip or stem cutting, that is used for vegetative propagation. A pistik contains one or more buds and can produce a new plant that is genetically identical to the parent. Pistikud are used to clone ornamentals, fruit trees, and many other species, allowing uniform stock and quicker fruiting or flowering compared with seed propagation.

There are several main types of cuttings. Softwood cuttings come from young, pliable growth taken in late spring or early summer. Semi-hardwood cuttings are taken from partially matured wood in late summer. Hardwood cuttings come from dormant, mature wood in autumn or winter. Some species are propagated from root cuttings, which are sections of roots placed in suitable media. The choice of type depends on the species and local climate.

Preparation and handling are important for success. Select healthy, disease-free stock. Cuttings are typically 5–15 cm long, taken just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and trim the remaining ones to reduce water loss. Optional rooting hormones containing indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) can improve rooting. Plant cuttings in a well-drained, sterile medium—often a mix of peat, perlite, or sand—maintaining high humidity and bright, indirect light. Temperature is usually kept around 20–25°C (68–77°F) for many species. A plastic dome or mist system can help maintain humidity until roots form, which may take weeks to months depending on the species.

After roots develop, pistikud are gradually acclimated and transplanted to a larger pot or field site. Advantages include genetic uniformity and rapid multiplication; limitations include variable rooting success among species and the need for careful hygiene to prevent disease.