Propagating Magnolias

Question

Hi Gardening Know How!
I followed your instructions diligently on how to propagate magnolias. I got really excited when a saw a couple of white hairs at the base. Unfortunately, I now think this is mould – it runs up the whole slit I made with my secateurs. I’m about to have another go. Any advise on where I went wrong would be most appreciated.
Many thanks,
Sally

Answer 1

It sounds like the media just stayed too wet. Make sure what you are planting in is moist but not wet, nor standing in water. If you are using a humidity dome, then you will need to open it from time to time.

The first time you soak whatever you are putting the seeds in, make sure to add a peroxide. Use about 1/4 of the total liquid as peroxide, and the other 3 parts water. so a ratio of peroxide to water at 1:3. This will kill off any infections. You can also use this same ratio mixture to spray onto the plants.