Rockwool cloning plugs are commonly used for plant cuttings propagation in hydroponic and horticulture. Rock wool is a popular growth medium due to its excellent water retention and breathability.
Rockwool cloning plug is an ideal medium for breeding cuttings. The rockwool plug is made of polyurethane fiber, which is melted, spun, and textured, and added with a solution containing trace minerals to create a good rooting medium for young plants.
1. Materials and composition:
Rock wool is a type of mineral wool that is spun from molten basalt or rock into fibers and then compressed into various forms, including cubes, plates, and mats. It is an inert and sterile material, making it an ideal substrate for starting plant cuttings.
2. Clone plug form:
Rockwool cloning plugs are usually small, cubic or rectangular shaped rockwool blocks. Their sheets come in various sizes, typically 20 "* 10" * 1.5 ". These rockwool clones provide a controllable environment for root development in cuttings.
3. Advantages:
Lightweight: Rockwool plugs are lightweight and can maintain their shape even when wet or dry. This makes it easier to handle and transport.
Water retention: Rock wool can both retain water and provide good drainage, which is crucial for root development.
Breathability: The breathability of the plug allows for the exchange of water and air from the environment to the inside of the plug. This helps to regulate a more stable temperature and environment for plant cuttings as they take root.
PH neutral: Rock wool is pH neutral, which means it does not affect the pH of the nutrient solution used for watering plants.
Consistency: Rock wool is a uniform and consistent medium that makes it easier to control variables during the cloning process.
Easy to transplant: Once the root system has matured, plants grown in rockwool cubes can be easily transplanted into various growth systems, such as hydroponic equipment or soil.
4. How to use the Rockwool cloning plug:
(1) Soak the rockwool block in slightly adjusted pH water (approximately 5.5 to 6.5) to ensure that the culture medium is moist and suitable for planting.
(2) Take healthy cuttings from the donor plant. Remove excess leaves to minimize water loss caused by transpiration.
(3) Use a pencil or similar tool to create a hole in the center of the rockwool cubes. Gently insert the incision into the hole to ensure its stability and reliability.
(4) Place cubes with inserts in a humidity dome or covered tray to maintain high humidity around the plants. This helps prevent withering and supports root development.
(5) Provide mild indirect light for the insert, avoiding strong direct sunlight.
(6) In the next week or two, monitor the cuttings for signs of root development. Keep the rockwool block moist at all times, but do not accumulate water.
(7) Once sufficient root systems are formed and plants adapt to the new environment, rooting cuttings are transplanted into their desired growth medium or system.
Although rock wool cloning plugs are an ideal medium for propagating cuttings. But appropriate care, hygiene, and monitoring are crucial for successful outcomes. Following the manufacturer's guidelines and recommended plant reproduction practices will increase the chances of obtaining healthy and well rooted clones.
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UPUPER rockwool cube is lightweight and non dispersing, which can reduce labor costs and intensity. Helps improve the labor environment and production efficiency. UPUPER rock wool substrate is produced on a fully automated production line, so customers will receive products with accurate dimensions and fast delivery times. UPUPER can meet the needs of different growers at different times.
