Propagating Geraniums
Propagating Geraniums from cuttings is fairly simple, they are a plant that will take root quickly and in most cases easily. So no matter if we are talking geraniums or pelargoniums here is how to go about it.
With a little care even the home gardener will find that taking cuttings of the scented geraniums is not that difficult. Pelargonium species are the scented geraniums, and when the leaves are brushed or crushed they give off the scent.
Admittedly some are a little easier than others the general rule is to use clean pots and cutting equipment and some hormone rooting powder.
The popular varieties such as the lemon scented Pelargonium crispum and Pelargonium citronellum are easy as long as you keep the moisture levels up.
Taking Geranium Cuttings
The best time to take cuttings is in spring, although you can take then in late summer, however spring is easier. Many Pelargoniums can be propagated from new growth, some are little more fussy
For the Lemon scented, Almond and Peppermint scented varieties new growth works well.
- Use a sharp sand as a potting medium.
- Choose healthy plants for cuttings with good strong growth. Look for growth with 5 - 6 stem nodes, these are the growth point. Once you have found a long enough piece select a growth node or 'eye' and this is where you need to make the cut
- The cuttings should be around 10 - 12 cm (4 - 5 inches) long and have the foliage removed from the lower 5 cm and make sure you remove any little leaves as well, this helps prevent rot.
- You need to cut and plant quickly so if you are taking the cuttings and will not be able to plant them immediately, re cut the lower portion to just below a higher node.
- You can use either liquid or powder rooting hormone, dip the lower 1/3 into the hormone and after you have made a hole in the sand the right depth (use a pencil or a stick) insert the cutting and firm in.
- The remaining foliage needs to be above the propagating mix.
- Water in a little with a liquid seaweed fertiliser and place in light shade.
- You should not need to water unless conditions are really hot and dry.
- New growth should appear in 4 -6 weeks, and its time to move the plants into a little more light, do not be tempted to over water at this stage.
- After the new growth is showing good signs you are ready to use a little liquid fertiliser, but do not over water.
- You will be ready to 'pot up' in a 4 - 6 months, check for good root growth first.
If you wish to you can use a heat mat to provide bottom heat, especially if you are taking cuttings in cooler months.
Other scented Geraniums or Pelargoniums include
- Pelargonium abrotanifolium Southerwood
- Pelargonium capitatum - Rose Scented
- Pelargonium fragrans (Pelargonium x fragrans) - Nutmeg scented
- Pelargonium fragrans 'Logees' - Spice Scented
- Pelargonium graveolens also known as Pelargonium roseum
- Pelargonium grossalarioides - Coconut scented
- Pelargonium odoratissimum - Apple scented
- Pelargonium radens - Rose Scented
- Pelargonium tomentosum - Pepperment scented
- Pelargonium quercifolium - Almond scented
- Pelargonium scarboroviae - Strawberry scented
Some of these are treated differently with Pelargonium fragrant, cuttings are best taken from old wood, use a rooting powder and leave alone for 6 months before potting up.
Pelargonium odoratissimum are best propagated from the semi mature cuttings
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