[Clone in Flowering] How to Save Plant Genetics (Part 2 of 3)

December 18, 2011 Alex Grady

So...we always tell you not to take cuttings in flowering. There's a reason why - it's notoriously difficult - nigh impossible for some plants.

You're going to really, really, really, really struggle to get it right. Don't be surprised if you fail completely.

BUT...if veg has been and gone...well...desperate times call for desperate measures. Anything's worth a shot. And good luck to you!

You're reading part 2 of a 3 part series. Here we teach you how to clone in flowering.

Part 1: Stratification
Part 2: Clone in flowering (this article)
Part 3: Overwintering

When To Clone In Flowering

When you've got nothing left to lose.

Imagine that a bug breakout made you miss your chance to take cuttings in veg, and all your seeds failed. That's how desperate you need to be.

That's what happened to us (the bug breakout bit).

If you're going to do this, be ready to fail completely. Cuttings will really struggle to survive. Don't say we didn't warn you.

How To Clone In Flowering

Really, you should take cuttings while you overwinter.

After all, when you overwinter, you really hack at your plant - all those spare branches have to go somewhere.

Then, if all cuttings fail, your overwintered plant acts as a back up.

The method is pretty much the same as when you take cuttings in veg. Just make sure you don't cut corners. If you want cuttings to survive, you really need to pull out all of the stops.

Hints & Tips

The chances of cuttings surviving are already very low - you have to be vigilant.

mildew

Keep an eye on cuttings - especially those that wilt. If you spot any signs of mould or mildew, remove the cutting straight away so the problem doesn't spread. magnifier

If a bug invasion's to blame for your desperate attempt, make sure you check all cuttings for creepy crawlies. The last thing you want to do is spread the infestation.

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