Hi Mark,
I have limited experience of this procedure but would like to
make a few comments relevant to the questions.
On quite a number of occasions Lachenalia in my collection have
produced small bulbils at points on leaves that have been damaged by pests.
The damaged area that produces new bulbs is below soil level and certainly
gives an indication of a possible technique that could produce small numbers
of extra bulbs.
Leaves selected for leaf cutting material should be relatively mature,
that is close to their final size, as opposed to young growth. I personally
have not cut the leaves into pieces as I fear the extra damage increases risk
of infection etc., and the larger leaf area usually produces larger bulbils. I
have also heard that the leaf segments farthest from the base tend to be more
reluctant to produce bulblets. These bulbs may reach flowering size quicker
than those produced from smaller leaf segments. The leaf is then placed in a
well drained medium such as vermiculite or peat moss and sand in the ration
of 1 to 3 with the base sufficiently deep to support the above ground part.
This depth may vary from 2 to 5 cm depending upon the size of the leaf. When
the original leaf blade dies down watering is stopped and the old base of the
leaf examined for bulblets.
During this process the cuttings need to be kept cool and yet require
bright conditions. High levels of heat tend to cause premature aging of the
leaf and usually smaller bulblets.
The broader more succulent leaves tend to produce the best results.
Mark Smyth wrote:
> > Take leaf cuttings of Lachenalia.
>
> Mark
>
> This is the first I have heard of propogating Lachenalia by leaf cuttings.
> Please explain the proceedure.
>
> thanks
>
> Mark
> N Ireland
>
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