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Starting Seeds
Prior to use, Oasis Rootcubes and Horticubes must be completely saturated with water. When using a standard 1020 propagation tray, fill with one gallon of tap water, tilting tray to insure all cubes have been thoroughly saturated. Tilt the tray to drain off as much of the excess water as possible, leaving no more than 1/8 inch in the bottom of the tray. At this point, it is a good idea to pick up the tray and feel the weight. As you can see, the cubes hold an incredible amount of water.
When using less than a full sheet, keep cubes you will use together in a single block. This helps the cubes retain moisture and provide a humidity bed. Do not break sheets down into individual cubes until you are ready to transplant.
For smaller seeds, place 2 to 3 seeds in each pre-punched hole. For larger sizes, a single seed will usually do. Unless the seed requires darkness to germinate, you will experience faster propagation times by not covering the holes. Make sure you maintain recommended temperature and light for your particular seed. When you feel that the weight of the tray has lessened to about half its original saturated weight, it's time to add more water. Add water along the edge of the tray so that the weight of the tray is back to its' original saturated weight. If you put a little too much in, don't worry about it... but you do not want the cubes to sit in water for extended periods.
Horticubes should be fertilized with a very mild nutrient solution commencing with the first addition of water after germination. Rootcubes will require mild fertilizer approximately two weeks after seed germination. Remember to always keep the cubes saturated.
Stem Cuttings
Both Rootcubes and Horticubes media are ideal for propagation of rooted cuttings. Saturate cubes as described for starting seeds above. Better results may be achieved by saturating with a liquid cloning solution instead of plain water. Take a 3 to 5 inch cutting from a growing tip on plant, dip in rooting hormone such as Clonex or Rootone® and stick into the pre-punched hole. Depth of sticking is critical. Cuttings should be stuck at least 1/3 of cube depth and no more than 3/4. If diameter of cutting is smaller than the pre-punched hole, stick directly into the cube next to the hole. Using a toothpick will help in these situations.
Callous will form in 5 to 10 days. Total propagation time will be 14-21 days, depending on cultivar and/or environment. Bottom heat should be maintained at 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember to always keep the cubes saturated. Using bottom heat will cause the tray to dry faster than without, so be sure to check often to establish a watering schedule. After roots appear from the sides and/or bottom of the cube, fertilize with a mild nutrient solution until transplant.
Transplanting
Make sure the cubes are thoroughly saturated before transplanting. Separate each plant keeping the cube intact. Cubes will break apart easily and the root system will separate naturally. Do not try to break the cube off of the roots. Transplant entire cube into container, soil garden, or hydroponic system. Make sure to cover each cube with at least 1/4 inch of soil or medium.
In NFT hydroponic systems, simply lay the cube in the bottom of the gutter or net pot.
Water directly at base of stem and thoroughly saturate cube as well as the surrounding soil or medium. Check moisture frequently until plant is well-established. |
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