“ The way growers shape , trim , or prune
their mother plants can also contribute to the efficiency of the cloning process .”
Pruning and Trimming
To keep mother plants healthy and under control , indoor horticulturists must implement some trimming or pruning . In many ways , keeping mother plants is like having large bonsai plants or a hedge . Topping and trimming mother plants not only keeps them healthy , but it also automatically multiplies the new growth shoots that can later be taken as clones . Most growers trim or prune the branches just above a node space . Where one shoot is removed , two new shoots will emerge from the node . Of course , the process of taking clones automatically prunes mother plants . However , this isn ’ t to say that mother plants should only be pruned when clones are taken . Pruning or trimming can be a regular activity and is a fun way for growers to shape the mother plants .
Preparing for Cloning
After setting up a mother plant area and properly caring for the mother plants , growers are ready take the clones . However , there are a few steps they can take to prepare their mother plants for the cloning process . The first thing growers should do is closely inspect the mother plants for any signs of nutrient deficiencies or pest insect damage . A magnifying glass or pocket microscope are great tools for close examination . After the mother plants have passed the inspection , they can be placed in complete darkness for 12-24 hours prior to taking cuttings . Plants create and store sugars during the process of photosynthesis . The idea is to take the clones when they contain the highest amount of these stored sugars , which would be during the plants ’ resting period or dark cycle .
Cloning from mother plants allows horticulturists to replicate the best genetics in their garden over and over again . By dialing in lighting , humidity , and temperature to provide mother plants with the right environment , horticulturists can rest assured they will have healthy stock to clone . Although keeping mother plants healthy is straightforward for those with a green thumb , there are little tricks of the trade that will enhance the cloning process . For example , developing a specific feeding regimen for mother plants can go a long way in maintaining their health over an extended period . The way growers shape , trim , or prune their mother plants can also contribute to the efficiency of the cloning process . At the end of the day , it is the horticulturists who love their mother plants the most who are rewarded with a better chance of cloning success . 52 Maximum Yield