Question
What is the best way to move a plant growing in water to soil. I have several plants (hoya is the main concern) that I would like to plant now. Are there any special concerns that should be considered in general when you try to put these cuttings in soil after they are rooted in water? By they way, I want to say that Will has been great.  

Answer
Hi Katherine,

Moving cuttings rooted in water to soil is always tricky because the roots have to change their structure as they adapt from water to moist soil. During the transition phase, which can last for 1 - 2 months, they are quite fragile and not able to handle lapses in care. Here are my suggestions:

Make sure the new roots are at least an inch long before transferring them.

Move them into very small pots - just large enough to contain the roots. This may be the most important consideration.

Use a peat-based soilless potting mix for best results.

Put a small amount of damp potting mix in the bottom of the pot. Shake the excess moisture off the wet roots so they spread out better in the pot.

Gently add more potting mix around the roots as you hold the cutting suspended in place with your other hand.

Tamp the potting mix down very gently and add more if necessary to keep all roots covered. Sprinkle some water over the surface to moisten the potting mix and to help press the potting mix in place.

Move the plants to bright, but indirect, light for the first month. For those plants that need more light, increase the light after a month.

Monitor the dampness of the potting mix daily. Water again when the top quarter of the potting mix is dry. If you water too soon or too late, even by a day, it can sabotage your efforts.

Good luck and let me know how they turn out!

Thanks for the nice compliment and enjoy my Indoor Plant Bulletins!

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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