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Rooting Cuttings in Perlite: A Tray Still Needs Checking

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Perlite is often discussed as though its name alone guarantees good rooting conditions. The container, the amount of water and the particular cutting still matter.

Use a clean container with appropriate drainage and label the cuttings before inserting them. Prepare the medium so you are not trying to add dry material around delicate stems after they are in place.

Check the cutting and the medium together

A damp-looking surface does not establish what is happening at the cutting's base. Monitor moisture without repeatedly lifting each stem to inspect for roots.

If a cover is used, watch for excessive condensation, overheating or decaying material. A cover should help manage conditions, not make the tray a sealed box that is never opened or checked.

Keep a brief note of the plant, date and medium. If another batch uses a different mixture, label that too. Comparing two clearly recorded batches is more informative than changing the mix halfway through because the first few days have been uneventful. Rooting speed varies with the plant and the material you selected.

Related reading: Rooting Media for Cuttings: Sand, Perlite and Other Mixes.