Cutting clones: Genetically identical plants

Cloning is a proven method of propagating cannabis with identical genetics:

**Cloning basics:**

*What are clones:*

- Genetically identical plant copies

- Gender of the mother plant guaranteed

- Same characteristics and potency

- No seed variation

- Faster production than from seed

*Advantages of cloning:*

- Known genetics and traits

- Female plants guaranteed

- Consistent harvest results

- No phenotype variation

- Cost savings on seeds

**Mother plant selection:**

*Ideal mother plant:*

- Healthy, vigorous growth

- Desired characteristics (potency, flavour)

- Disease resistance

- Good yields

- Stable genetics

*Mother plant care:*

- Maintain vegetative state (18/6 light)

- Regular fertilisation

- Pruning for new growth

- Health monitoring

- Minimise stress

**Clone pruning timing:**

*Optimal timing:*

- Mother plant at least 2 months old

- New, strong shoots available

- Mother plant in good condition

- Not shortly after stress

- Early in the day for best hydration

*Shoot selection:*

- 10-15cm long shoots

- Healthy, green colour

- At least 4-6 pairs of leaves

- Soft, flexible stems

- No flower buds

**Pruning technique:**

*Tool preparation:*

- Sharp, sterile blade

- Isopropanol for disinfection

- Clean work surface

- Wear gloves

- Root gel or powder ready

*Cutting procedure:*

- 45° angle cut under water

- Place in water immediately

- Avoid air bubbles in stems

- Remove lower leaves

- Cut large leaves in half

*After cutting:*

- Place clones in rooting medium

- High humidity (80-90%)

- Indirect, low light

- Temperature 20-25°C

- Daily control

**Rooting media:**

*Rockwool cubes:*

- pre-treat to pH 5.5

- Uniform humidity

- Good aeration

- Sterile starting position

- Easy transplantation

*Peat pellets:*

- Soak in warm water

- Natural material

- Biodegradable

- Contains nutrients

- Inexpensive and available

*Aeroponic systems:*

- Develop aerial roots

- Fastest rooting

- Constant humidity

- Higher success rate

- Equipment required

*Water cloning:*

- Simplest method

- Distilled water only

- Air stone for oxygen

- Longer until rooting

- Suitable for beginners

**Rooting environment:**

*Propagation dome:*

- Maintain high humidity

- Ventilation slots for airflow

- Condensation management

- Temperature control

- Transparent for light entry

*Lighting:*

- CFL or low level LED

- 18-24 hours daily

- Not too intense (stress)

- 20-30cm distance

- Even illumination

*Ventilation:*

- Gentle air movement

- Mould prevention

- Not too strong (drying out)

- Fresh air supply

- Temperature stability

**Rooting process:**

*First week:*

- Check humidity daily

- Keep dome closed

- Low light

- No nutrients

- Be patient

*Second week:*

- First roots appear

- Domes begin to open

- Humidity