What To Know
- Make a hole in the center and insert the cutting, ensuring the top leaves are above the soil surface.
- Make a hole in the center and insert the cutting, ensuring the top inch of the cutting is above the soil surface.
Convolvulus cneorum, commonly known as bush morning glory or silver bush, is a beautiful and versatile shrub that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, propagating this ornamental plant can be a rewarding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various methods of propagating Convolvulus cneorum, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to multiply these stunning plants.
Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings are taken from the tips of actively growing stems during the spring or early summer.
1. Select stems: Choose healthy, non-flowering stems with at least two sets of leaves.
2. Prepare cuttings: Cut 4-6 inch stem sections below a node (where leaves attach to the stem). Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top two or three.
3. Dip in rooting hormone: Dip the cut end of the cutting into a rooting hormone powder or gel to promote root development.
4. Plant in potting mix: Fill a pot with a well-draining potting mix. Make a hole in the center and insert the cutting, ensuring the top leaves are above the soil surface.
5. Water and cover: Water the soil thoroughly and cover the pot with plastic wrap or a propagator to maintain humidity.
6. Place in bright, indirect light: Keep the cuttings in a warm, well-lit location with bright, indirect light.
Semi-Hardwood Cuttings
Semi-hardwood cuttings are taken from slightly more mature stems in the late summer or early fall.
1. Select stems: Choose stems that have stopped growing but are still flexible.
2. Prepare cuttings: Cut 6-8 inch stem sections below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top two or three.
3. Callus: Allow the cut end of the cutting to callous over for several hours before planting.
4. Plant in potting mix: Fill a pot with a well-draining potting mix. Make a hole in the center and insert the cutting, ensuring the top leaves are above the soil surface.
5. Water and cover: Water the soil thoroughly and cover the pot with plastic wrap or a propagator to maintain humidity.
6. Place in cool, bright location: Keep the cuttings in a cool, well-lit location with bright, indirect light.
Hardwoord Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings are taken from dormant stems in the winter.
1. Select stems: Choose healthy, dormant stems that are at least one year old.
2. Prepare cuttings: Cut 8-12 inch stem sections below a node. Remove all leaves.
3. Callus: Allow the cut end of the cutting to callous over for several weeks before planting.
4. Plant in potting mix: Fill a pot with a well-draining potting mix. Make a hole in the center and insert the cutting, ensuring the top inch of the cutting is above the soil surface.
5. Water and cover: Water the soil thoroughly and cover the pot with plastic wrap or a propagator to maintain humidity.
6. Place in cool, dark location: Keep the cuttings in a cool, dark location until spring.
Layering
Layering is a method of propagation that involves encouraging roots to develop on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant.
1. Select stems: Choose healthy, flexible stems that are close to the ground.
2. Score the stem: Make a shallow cut or scrape on the underside of the stem, about 2-3 inches from the tip.
3. Bend and bury: Bend the stem down and bury the cut section in the soil, leaving the tip exposed.
4. Secure: Use a brick or other weight to hold the stem in place.
5. Water: Water the soil thoroughly.
Division
Division is a simple method of propagation that involves dividing an existing plant into smaller sections.
1. Dig up the plant: Carefully dig up the entire plant in the spring or fall.
2. Divide the roots: Use a sharp knife or spade to divide the roots into several sections, each with a few healthy shoots.
3. Replant: Replant the divisions in separate pots or in the garden, spacing them at least 2 feet apart.
4. Water: Water the plants thoroughly.
Seeds
Propagating Convolvulus cneorum from seeds is a challenging but rewarding process.
1. Collect seeds: Collect seeds from mature seed pods in the fall.
2. Scarify seeds: Scarify the seeds by rubbing them with sandpaper or nicking them with a knife to improve germination.
3. Sow seeds: Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a well-draining seed starting mix.
4. Cover seeds: Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
5. Water and place in warm location: Water the soil thoroughly and place the seed tray in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
6. Keep moist: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
7. Germination: Germination can take several weeks to several months.
Wrapping Up: The Art of Convolvulus Cneorum Propagation
With patience and care, propagating Convolvulus cneorum can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. By following these methods, you can multiply these beautiful plants and add a touch of elegance to your garden for years to come. Remember to provide proper care and maintenance to ensure their continued health and vigor.
FAQ
Q: When is the best time to propagate Convolvulus cneorum?
A: The best time to propagate Convolvulus cneorum is during the spring or early summer for softwood cuttings, late summer or early fall for semi-hardwood cuttings, and winter for hardwood cuttings.
Q: How long does it take for cuttings to root?
A: Softwood cuttings can take 4-6 weeks to root, while semi-hardwood cuttings can take 6-8 weeks and hardwood cuttings can take 8-12 weeks or longer.
Q: Can Convolvulus cneorum be propagated from seeds?
A: Yes, but it is a challenging process. Scarification of the seeds is necessary to improve germination.
