Fragging toadstool

[jamal-188]

My toadstool is having problem standing upright so I figured I might try to frag him. Do I just cut the stalk say half way up and then attach it to another rock? From what I gather the bottom half should then grow into anther toadstool?

[Atari]

That's not really going to help if it's top heavy though.. it would be better to cut a donut around the cap.

[jamal-188]

Originally Posted by Atari

That's not really going to help if it's top heavy though.. it would be better to cut a donut around the cap.

I just thougth maybe the stalk was too long? I think it may be because the rock it's on is very small as well, if I secured the rock that would probably help but I was hoping I could frag it and get 2 corals

[Atari]

If you cut about an inch deep all the way around the cap you can make a bunch of frags out of that. Say about 2"x1" pieces attached to a disc made from reef putty or something.

[Atari]

There's a great book on coral propagation by Anthony Calfo.

[jamal-188]

Originally Posted by Atari

If you cut about an inch deep all the way around the cap you can make a bunch of frags out of that. Say about 2"x1" pieces attached to a disc made from reef putty or something.

What is reef putty? I"m scared of cutting it up that much but I may just try it 8)

[Atari]

That's actually the recommended method of fragging. Cutting straight through the stalk can work but apparently it's a bit risky.

Reef putty is exactly what it sounds like :P it's used to stick rocks together or attach frags to rocks. The good stuff turns a nice purple once it's cured and looks just like coralline.

[jamal-188]

Originally Posted by Atari

There's a great book on coral propagation by Anthony Calfo.

I actually have it but haven't had much time to read lately. So when I cut around this guy do I try to slice as far down the stalk as possible so I have like 4-5 mini toadstools? If i understand you correctly there will be a 2x1" top and then a thin piece of stalk on each frag?

I have some of that putty left from my last project!

[WarOrks15]

well i cut my toad stool stock and it is growing to a 2nd one right now. the cup is starting to form and get it define shape. and the other one is wateing to be sent off.

[Atari]

Originally Posted by jamal-188

I actually have it but haven't had much time to read lately. So when I cut around this guy do I try to slice as far down the stalk as possible so I have like 4-5 mini toadstools? If i understand you correctly there will be a 2x1" top and then a thin piece of stalk on each frag?

I have some of that putty left from my last project!

I probably didn't explain it very well. Think of it like a pizza and you're cutting the crust off

[jamal-188]

I got you, and it will just grow a new stalk I'm assuming. I"m a bit nervous but perhaps I'll try it.

[Atari]

I know what you mean.. I'm facing the same thing in a few months and it scares me But from the research I've done it's a pretty routine procedure. Since you have the book, definitely read through the exact instructions before you do anything.