scheutje

Scheutje is a Dutch word that translates to "sprig" or "cutting" in English. It refers to a small piece of a plant that has been cut off, typically with the intention of propagating it to grow a new plant. This method of asexual reproduction is common for many types of plants, including flowers, shrubs, and trees.

The process of taking a scheutje usually involves selecting a healthy stem from a parent plant. This stem is then cut, often just below a leaf node, and the lower leaves are removed. The cut end may be treated with rooting hormone to encourage root development. The scheutje is then planted in a suitable growing medium, such as soil, perlite, or water, and kept moist and in appropriate conditions for it to root and grow.

Scheutjes are a popular and efficient way for gardeners and horticulturists to propagate plants. It allows for the creation of genetically identical copies of the parent plant, ensuring that desirable traits are maintained. This technique is widely used for a variety of ornamental plants, fruit-bearing bushes, and even some vegetables. The term is specific to the practice of vegetative propagation using small plant cuttings.