How and where do I cut my cannabis clones?

How and where do I cut my cannabis clones?

How and where do I cut my cannabis clones


Cannabis cloning is an essential skill for any serious grower. By taking cuttings from a healthy, high-quality mother plant, you can produce genetically identical offspring with the same desirable traits. In this article, we will discuss how and where to cut cannabis clones for the best results. We'll cover the following topics:

  • Selecting the right mother plant
  • Identifying the ideal cutting sites
  • Proper cutting technique
  • Preparing the cannabis clones for growth

Selecting the Right Mother Plant​

The key to successful cloning starts with choosing a healthy, vigorous mother plant. Look for plants that have shown consistent growth, strong branching, and resistance to pests and diseases. Genetic factors also play a significant role, so choose a strain known for its desirable attributes, such as high yield, potency, or specific terpene profiles.

Identifying the Ideal Cutting Sites​

Once you've chosen a suitable mother plant, it's time to identify the best locations for taking cuttings. Ideal cutting sites are found on the main branches towards the lower half of the plant. These sites should have the following characteristics:

  1. Node: A node is the point on a stem where a leaf or branch emerges. Choose a cutting site with at least one node, preferably two or more, as this is where roots will develop.
  2. Healthy growth: Look for shoots with healthy leaves and no signs of pest infestation or nutrient deficiencies.
  3. Size: Aim for cuttings that are between 4-6 inches in length, as this size is easier to manage and more likely to root successfully.

Proper Cutting Technique​

Once you have identified the ideal cutting sites, follow these steps to make a clean and precise cut:

  1. Sterilize your tools: Use a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors, pruning shears, or a razor blade to minimize the risk of infection.
  2. Prepare a container: Fill a small container with water or cloning solution to immediately place the cuttings, preventing air bubbles from entering the stem and causing embolism.
  3. Cut at an angle: Make a 45-degree angled cut about ¼ inch below the selected node. This increases the surface area for root development and promotes faster rooting.
  4. Remove lower leaves: Remove the lower leaves on the cutting, leaving only the top two or three sets of leaves. This reduces the energy demands of the cutting and encourages root growth.

Preparing the Cannabis Clones for Growth​

After taking your cuttings, it's time to prepare them for their new life as individual plants. Follow these steps to increase the chances of successful rooting:

  1. Dip in rooting hormone: To promote root development, dip the cut ends of your clones into a commercial rooting hormone or a natural alternative, such as honey or aloe vera gel.
  2. Plant in a suitable medium: Place the dipped cuttings into a clean, moist growth medium, such as Rockwool cubes, peat pellets, or coco coir.
  3. Maintain a humid environment: Use a humidity dome or a makeshift plastic cover to keep the cuttings in a high-humidity environment (70-80% RH) until roots begin to form, typically within 7-14 days.
  4. Provide adequate lighting: Use a low-intensity light source, such as fluorescent bulbs or LED grow lights, to provide 18-24 hours of light per day. Avoid high-intensity lights that can cause heat stress and slow down rooting.
By following these steps, you can successfully cut and grow cannabis clones, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality plants for your garden. Remember to monitor the clones closely for signs of stress, disease, or pest infestation, and take action as needed to maintain a healthy environment.
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