Geraniums are probably the most common and beloved houseplants in every home. Surely, because they are very simple to maintain and propagate. Today we will see together how to cut a geranium. But before doing so, one must ask: “What is a plant cut?” “. It is a very simple method used to propagate plants. For many plants, there is a certain period, not only in their growth, but also during the day, when they should be cut. Read on if you want to have a garden or pots full of the beautiful geranium!
How to take cuttings from a geranium?
We want to inspire you to propagate this beautiful, easy-to-care flower. But first, we have an important question for you! Do you know what the benefits of geranium are? Like hellebores, their magical properties can illuminate your home and fill it with eternally positive energy. Geraniums attract love, happiness and are known to cure anxiety and stress. Having it in abundance can be an excellent option! If you are not spiritual, its medicinal properties are amazing too! Geranium oil can be used as a perfume, deodorant and especially as a diuretic. If these reasons aren’t enough to consider geranium cuttings, we don’t know what is. Well, let’s see how to take a geranium cutting and when!
When to cut geraniums? And under what conditions?
When is the best time to take cuttings? In fact, geraniums have no dormant period, so you can propagate them whenever you want. However, experienced gardeners recommend doing this from April to mid-summer. On the other hand, it is better to wait for a pause in the plant’s flowering cycle. Geraniums should be propagated when the weather is nice and warm and there is sunshine outside. Likewise, it is essential not to forget to fertilize your soil, so that the plant grows healthy and provides a lot of color.
How to take cuttings from a geranium step by step
Materials needed to take cuttings from a geranium
- Small, clean pots with drainage holes.
- potting mix
- isopropyl alcohol
- drip tray
- Large clear food bags
- very fine and sharp scalpel or knife
How to take cuttings from a geranium: steps
- First you need to get a stem about 10-15 cm long with two healthy leaves on top.
- Choose a new stem that is green and cut it just below a leaf node with a very fine knife.
- Then remove the stems, flowers and buds. You don’t want the plant to waste energy on it yet.
- Remove all leaves from the bottom 2 inches.
- Hold the remaining sheets together.
- Store them in a warm location, either outdoors in partial shade or indoors near a window. On the other hand, avoid full sun until roots form.
- Keep the mixture in the container moist, but not soggy.
- After 5 to 7 weeks, you should see roots forming.
- Geraniums have long roots, so you can see some in the holes at the bottom of the pot.
- You can also check by lightly pulling on the stem to feel if the roots are holding it in place.
- Finally, with the roots firmly established, you can now transplant each cutting into its own pot.
Caring for a geranium in a pot or in the garden
The soil: it must be well-drained and loose, with plenty of organic matter. Add compost and fertilizer if heavier.
Temperature: during the day the ideal temperature is 20-22°C and at night 13°C.
Planting distance: Plant them about 20-25 cm apart to avoid diseases between plants. You can also look for companion plants that may be useful.
Sunlight: Sunlight is essential for the successful growth of any plant, so keep it exposed to the sun for 6 to 8 hours a day.
Watering: Geraniums require little maintenance. It is enough to water them once or twice a week.