Propagating Ixora from cuttings can be a rewarding way to expand your collection of these beautiful flowering plants, though it can be moderately challenging. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you succeed:
The best time to take Ixora cuttings is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This ensures the cuttings have the best chance of rooting and developing new growth.
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Choosing and Preparing Cuttings
- Select healthy stems: Look for non-flowering stems that are semi-hardwood.
- Length: Aim for cuttings 4-6 inches long.
- Nodes: Ensure your cutting has at least 2-3 leaf nodes, as new roots often emerge from these points.
- Clean Cut: Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears or a knife to make a clean cut just below a node. A 45-degree angle can increase the surface area for rooting.
- Remove lower leaves: Strip off the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prevent them from rotting in the soil and to expose the nodes.
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Planting the Cuttings
- Prepare pots: Fill small pots with your chosen rooting medium.
- Make a hole: Use a pencil or stick to create a small hole in the center of the potting mix.
- Insert cutting: Gently insert the cut end of the Ixora cutting into the hole, ensuring at least one or two nodes are buried.
- Gently firm the soil: Lightly press the soil around the base of the cutting to ensure good contact.
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Patience and Care:
- Root development: Roots typically begin to form within 4-8 weeks. You can gently tug on a cutting to check for resistance, which indicates root formation.
- Transplanting: Once the rooted cuttings are well-established and have a good root system, you can transplant them into larger pots with a regular well-draining potting mix. Remember.
With patience and the right techniques, you can successfully propagate beautiful Ixora plants from cuttings!
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