stiklings

Stiklings are plant segments used to propagate new plants, typically by vegetative means. In horticulture they are commonly referred to as cuttings in English. A stikling is usually a piece of stem or leaf, sometimes including a small portion of root, that contains buds or nodes capable of forming roots and shoots.

Types of stiklings include stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, and root cuttings. Stem cuttings are the most common for many ornamentals and fruiting plants. Softwood cuttings come from new, flexible growth; semi-ripe cuttings from mid-season wood; and hardwood cuttings from dormant wood. Leaf cuttings are used for certain species, while root cuttings suffice for some shrubs and trees. The choice depends on the species and the desired plant form. Collection and handling depend on the plant’s biology and local climate.

Preparation involves selecting a healthy, disease-free mother plant and using clean, sharp tools to take a cutting, typically about 5–15 cm for stem cuttings. The lower leaves are removed to reduce water loss, while one or two leaves may be kept at the top. A rooting hormone can be applied to the base to encourage root initiation. The stikling is planted in a well-draining rooting medium, such as a peat-perlite or sand mix. Providing warmth and high humidity can improve rooting success, and bottom heat can help for many species.

Care after planting includes keeping the medium moist but not waterlogged, avoiding direct harsh sun, and ensuring adequate light once roots develop. After rooting, cuttings are gradually acclimated and transplanted to a pot or garden soil.

Stiklings enable rapid, clone-like propagation of cultivars and other desirable traits, but success varies by species and requires careful sanitation and technique.