How to Take Scented Leaf Pelargonium Cuttings

If you're a fan of gardening, you might have come across scented leaf pelargoniums. These plants not only produce beautiful flowers but also leaves that emit delightful scents such as mint, lemon, or rose. If you want to propagate your scented leaf pelargoniums, taking cuttings is the way to go. In this article, we'll show you how to take scented leaf pelargonium cuttings in simple steps.

What You Will Need

Before we get started, let's make sure you have everything you need to take scented leaf pelargonium cuttings. Here's what you need:

• A sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors
• A clean and sterile potting mix
• A rooting hormone powder or gel
• A small container or pots with drainage holes
• A spray bottle filled with water

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Scented Leaf Pelargonium Cuttings

Step 1: Choose Your Parent Plant

The first step in taking scented leaf pelargonium cuttings is to choose the parent plant. Look for a healthy and mature plant with new growth. Make sure it has no signs of diseases, pests, or damages.

A healthy and mature scented leaf pelargonium parent plant

Step 2: Prepare Your Tools and Materials

Now that you have your parent plant, it's time to prepare your tools and materials. As mentioned earlier, you'll need a sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors, a clean and sterile potting mix, a rooting hormone powder or gel, a small container or pots with drainage holes, and a spray bottle filled with water.

Step 3: Take the Cuttings

With your tools and materials ready, it's time to take the cuttings. Locate a stem on the parent plant with at least two nodes or leaf joints. Using your pruning shears or scissors, make a clean cut just below the second node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving only two or three leaves on the top half.

Scented leaf pelargonium cuttings

Step 4: Apply Rooting Hormone

Dip the bottom end of the cutting into the rooting hormone powder or gel. Shake off any excess powder or wipe off any excess gel. This step will encourage the cutting to develop roots faster.

Step 5: Pot the Cuttings

Fill the small container or pots with the clean and sterile potting mix. Make a hole in the soil using a pencil or a similar object. Insert the cutting into the hole, and press the soil firmly around it. Repeat the process with the other cuttings.

Step 6: Water the Cuttings

Using the spray bottle, mist the cuttings with water until the soil is moist. Don't overwater, as this could drown the cuttings. Cover the container or pots with a plastic bag or a clear plastic lid to create a greenhouse-like environment. This will help retain moisture and heat, which are essential for root development.

Step 7: Place the Cuttings in a Suitable Location

Find a suitable location for your cuttings. They should be placed in a bright area but away from direct sunlight, which could damage the fragile roots. Keep the temperature between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) to promote growth. Check the soil regularly and mist if needed.

Step 8: Transplant the Cuttings into a Larger Container

After four to six weeks, the cuttings should have developed enough roots to transplant them into a larger container with well-draining soil. You can now enjoy your very own scented leaf pelargoniums!

Taking scented leaf pelargonium cuttings is an easy and rewarding way to propagate these lovely plants. With the proper tools, materials, and techniques, you can create an endless supply of scented leaf pelargoniums to display in your garden, home, or office. Remember to be patient and give your cuttings the care they need to thrive.

scented leaf pelargonium, gardening, propagation, cuttings, plants, rooting hormone