Figure 4 shows how rex begonia leaves may be rooted. Pebbles are used to hold the leaf in contact with the soil surface. Figure 5 shows the progression of root and new plantlet formation for African violets. The high humidity chambers work well for leaf cuttings. In this type of cutting, the formation of new shoots and roots must take place.
Root cuttings taken from young plants are more successful than from old plants.
As a general rule, root-promoting substances on root cuttings are not as effective as when used on leaf or stem cuttings. Dig the roots during the dormant period for the plant. Select sound, thick, mature roots. Water the soil and protect it from drying out by covering the flat with glass or a lath shade. Young plants are ready for transplanting in 6 to 12 weeks.