How to Propagate Poinsettia

Semi-hardwood cuttings

Cutting time

Semi-hard branches are semi-lignified branches, which are usually grown when the temperature is above 15°C, which is between March and May in spring.

Cutting method

Choose one-year-old semi-lignified branches, about 10 cm long, cut off the leaves at the lower end, cut the base into an oblique end and disinfect it. Then insert the branches into the soil, water them thoroughly, and control the temperature at 22~24℃. They will take root after 20 days. You can plant a few more cuttings each time, and it is best to choose those that grow well and plant them in pots.

Softwood cuttings

Cutting time

Control the room temperature at around 22℃ and start cuttings in late March. This method has a high survival rate, and as long as the indoor temperature can be reached, cuttings can be carried out until September.

Cutting method

Cut the branches of the current year with 6 to 8 leaves on them, select branches 6 to 8 cm long and keep 3 to 4 leaves. After pruning, place it in clean water to prevent the juice in the stem from flowing out. After soaking for 2 minutes, directly cut into pieces. During the rooting process, keep the leaves moist, water frequently, and provide appropriate shade. Most varieties will take root after 14 to 18 days.

Old root cuttings

Cutting time

Poinsettias that have been cultivated for many years have many old roots, which can be used to reproduce into new plants. Every year from March to April, poinsettias need to be repotted and the soil changed when they are taken out of the house. At this time, people will trim the old roots, which can be used for cuttings. The advantage of this method is that it uses discarded old roots and has no impact on the plants.

Cutting method

When repotting, cut off the old roots and cut them into root segments of about 10 cm. Sterilize the roots and insert them directly into the soil (if there are a few roots on the old roots, it is easier to sprout new buds. As for the cutting container, try to choose a deeper flower pot to allow the roots to fully stretch in the soil.

There is no need for shade after cuttings. After one month, new sprouts and leaves will grow. When the plant grows to about 10 cm, it can be planted in a pot and maintained normally after a 5-10 day seedling acclimatization period.