How to propagate azalea by cuttings

Rhododendron cutting time

Rhododendron cuttings are best carried out in late spring and early summer, but the time when new branches sprout varies depending on the variety. Usually the western azalea blooms in late May, the spring azalea blooms in early June, and the eastern azalea and summer azalea bloom in mid-June. However, during the plum rain season in the south of the Yangtze River, the air is mild and humid, which is more conducive to the healing and rooting of cuttings.

How to propagate azalea by cuttings

First, choose a strong mother plant.

Select the lush branches and leaves that grow upward and cut them off at the roots. Remove the lower leaves and only keep the top 2 to 3 leaves.

After trimming, bundle the leaves and soak them in warm water for 30 minutes.

Poke a few small holes in the prepared potting soil.

Insert the soaked branches into the hole and press firmly with your fingers.

Water enough and place it in a cool place. If the humidity is low, you can wrap the flowerpot with plastic film. After about three weeks, the cuttings will adapt to the new environment and can be moved to a bright place and exposed to the sun appropriately.

Rhododendron cutting maintenance

The cuttings will take root 50 to 60 days after rooting. After rooting, the plastic film on the surface can be removed to ensure air circulation. Water once in the morning and once in the evening. After another month, the root system will be full and can be planted in separate pots. It is best to plant it in a pot with a diameter of 10 cm. After potting, place it in a warm sunny place.