Correct spelling for the English word "cuttage" is [kˈʌtɪd͡ʒ], [kˈʌtɪdʒ], [k_ˈʌ_t_ɪ_dʒ] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Cuttage is a botanical term referring to a method of plant propagation, specifically the process of producing new plants from cuttings taken from a parent plant. It is a type of asexual reproduction where a portion of the stem, root, or leaf of the parent plant is severed and then placed in a favorable environment to encourage its development into a new individual plant.
Generally, in cuttage, a healthy and mature plant is selected as the donor, preferably one that possesses desired traits such as disease resistance, flower color, or growth habit. The chosen portion, known as a cutting, is carefully removed and prepared by removing any unwanted leaves or branches. It is then typically treated with rooting hormones to stimulate the growth of roots.
The cuttings are then typically placed in a suitable growth medium, such as soil, water, or a mix of both, providing the necessary conditions for root development. Adequate humidity, temperature, and light are often maintained to optimize the success rate of cuttage. Over time, the severed portion develops roots and eventually grows into an independent plant genetically identical to the parent.
Cuttage is a widely used propagation technique in horticulture, allowing gardeners and farmers to efficiently produce numerous plants from an original specimen. It is especially useful for plants that may not reproduce easily from seeds or produce offspring with variable traits. By utilizing cuttage, individuals can preserve and multiply desirable plant characteristics, ensuring the continued availability of specific plant varieties.