Do you love geraniums and want to fill your garden with them? It’s simple—just take cuttings! This method allows you to propagate geraniums from a stem taken from the mother plant. Read on to discover how to do it!
What Are Geraniums?
Pelargonium, commonly known as garden geranium, is a flowering plant known for its vibrant blooms in various colors. If you have a geranium at home, you can easily multiply it with just one stem!
When to Take Geranium Cuttings
If you enjoy summer, so do pelargoniums! The best time to take cuttings is during the summer months, particularly at the end of July or August. During this time, soil temperatures are ideal for new root growth, aided by the warm summer sun. Geraniums are perennial plants native to South Africa, thriving in sunny conditions and temperatures above 13°C. You can also take cuttings in spring as the plant begins to grow again.
Where to Cut for Pelargonium Cuttings
- Choose a Healthy Plant: Select a sturdy geranium that is free from damage.
- Make the Cut: Use pruning shears to cut a stem 10 to 20 cm long. Ensure your shears are disinfected. Make the cut above a node (the point where a leaf attaches to the stem).
- Prepare the Cutting: The stem should have a maximum of 5 leaves. Remove the larger leaves at the base and any buds, as they can weaken the future plant.
How to Propagate Geraniums from a Stem
After obtaining your stem, follow these steps to grow a new geranium plant:
- Apply Rooting Hormone: Dip the end of the stem in water, then into rooting hormone powder. This helps the powder stick and promotes root development while preventing diseases.
- Prepare the Pot: Use a biodegradable pot filled with cutting soil or a mix of peat and sand. Avoid plastic pots as they can hinder transplanting.
- Water the Soil: Ensure the soil is well-watered and make a hole in the center.
- Plant the Stem: Insert the stem into the hole and gently tamp down the soil.
- Placement: Keep the pot in partial shade to avoid drying out. Remember to water regularly. For more abundant geraniums, you can plant up to 3 cuttings in the same pot if it’s large enough.
How to Propagate Geraniums in Water
Prefer not to use rooting hormone? You can also propagate geraniums in water:
- Prepare the Stem: Place a healthy, cleaned stem in a glass of water.
- Add Charcoal: Include a small piece of charcoal to prevent root rot.
- Change the Water: Refresh the water regularly.
You’ll soon see roots developing. Once they reach at least 3 cm, transplant your cuttings into potting soil.
By using a simple stem, you can multiply your geraniums affordably and enjoy a summer filled with beautiful blooms—no green thumb required!
