There are six different methods of asexual propagation, the multiplication of plants from vegetative parts, such as shoots, roots and leaves, or specialized organs such as bulbs and corms.
Gardeners know the value of propagation: you save money and there’s the added benefit of pride and satisfaction from seeing one of your propagated plants grow. There are many types of propagation; my favorite is wood cuttings.
You’ll need a few things to get started: a sharp clipper, good porous soil and rooting hormone (I prefer the powder form). Containers can be anything from plastic 2-liter bottles cut in half, or containers from purchased plants. The container needs only good drainage to work.
Choose your favorite flowering shrub or you might want to start with a few of my favorites, such as hibiscus, hydrangea, camellia, azalea, gardenia, ligustrum, crape myrtle, lantana or plumbago.
Cuttings should be made first thing in the morning when the stems are full of water. Be sure your clippers are sterilized before you begin. Have a bucket filled with clean water to keep the clippings hydrated.
To propagate, have ready rooting hormone and containers filled with good porous soil. Then follow these simple steps:
• Cut the stem, at an angle, about 4 to 6 inches long.
• Remove all flowers and excess leaves, but leave at least three leaves at the top; if they are large leaves, cut them in half.
• Dip the stem into the rooting hormone, tap gently to remove any excess.
• Place the cutting in the soil, deep enough that it stands upright, press down firmly around the base to hold in place.
• Mist the soil to keep in moist but not wet. (Finally, a use for the “mist” setting on your hand-held sprayer.)
Place your new plants in an area where they won’t be in full sunlight all day and they are out of the wind.
Your cuttings should be misted daily.
Happy gardening!
Shirley Fenton is a 13-year resident of Bryceville and an active Master Gardener volunteer with the Nassau County Extension Service
