Here are some Quick Tips for success with your new clones
Plant fast: get your clones into quality soil or a sterile propagation medium within 24–48 hours of delivery. The sooner they’re in an environment with stable moisture and oxygen, the better their chances of keeping those fragile stems and leaves turgid while roots form.
Gentle environment first: clones want high humidity and low, soft light until roots show. Use a dome, humidity tent, or propagation tray to keep humidity elevated (70–85% to start) and place clones under diffuse light or a low‑intensity LED 12–24 in (30–60 cm) away depending on the fixture. Direct, intense light will stress them and slow rooting.
Gradual ramp of conditions: once you see new root growth and fresh leaf growth, lower humidity in stages over several days and slowly bring light intensity up. A gradual transition helps build sturdier stems and avoids shock.
Feed lightly: begin with a very mild nutrient solution — about 1/4 to 1/2 strength of the manufacturer’s recommendation — once roots are established. Clones prefer a gentle start; too much fertilizer too soon can burn tiny roots or cause osmotic stress.
Keep temperatures steady: aim for 20–25°C (68–77°F) for best rooting. Avoid big swings between day and night. Warm, stable temps speed root formation; cold slows it.
Maintain good air exchange: while humidity should be high, stagnant air invites mold and damping‑off. Provide gentle airflow with a small fan set on low, angled so it moves the air without directly blasting the leaves.
Watch for pests and stress: inspect daily for aphids, fungus gnats, spider mites, or signs of disease. Yellowing, limp stems, or collapsed leaves indicate root issues, moisture problems, or pathogen attack. Prompt action preserves the entire batch.
Healthy mothers = healthy clones: take clones from vigorous, pest‑free, well‑fed mother plants. Use clean, sharp tools and sterile technique when cutting to minimize infection risk.
Acclimation before transplant: after roots are well developed (visible and occupying the plug or showing through drainage), acclimate clones to lower humidity and stronger light over 5–10 days before transplanting into larger containers or outdoors.
Keep records: note clone date, mother plant, medium, and feeding schedule. Small adjustments informed by records will improve success over time.
Need more help? Contact TCD for a consult and tell us what medium, light setup, and climate you’re using and TCD will give you a tailored step‑by‑step plan.