Flowers for Free

Primroses, Geraniums and a Bird's Nest by George Clare

Flowers are such a beautiful display of God's creation and I love them dearly but sometimes it breaks the bank to plant them! Cuttings are an excellent way to establish a garden without paying a penny. What you need are either some flowers in which to propagate or a friend or neighbor with a thriving garden. This method works well with sturdier and thicker stemmed plants. Delicate designs are not good choices as they will most likely wilt in the process.

Geraniums

Geraniums are probably the easiest plants to start off with because success is almost certain. To take a cutting, choose a strong stem with a few open leaves. Cut the stem just below a leaf at an angle and peel off the lower leaves on the bottom part of what you just cut. Place this cutting into a small pot filled with potting soil (I used regular soil but the experts recommend a combination of peat moss, perlite, vermiculite) and press the plant firmly in place. Keep the soil moist and make sure there is adequate drainage. Once you notice the plant has begun to grow its own leaves and settle in, you can transplant it anywhere in your garden, hanging planters or window boxes provided the conditions are beneficial to the plant.

• The best time to take cuttings is in the morning.
• Keep the cuttings cool and moist until you are ready to plant. You can store the cuttings in wet paper towels prior to using or store in plastic bag in refrigerator.
• Place pot in indirect sunlight until it flourishes and is ready to be transplanted.
• Place a plastic bag loosely over the plant allowing for some air to pass through. This will provide some humidity and lock in some moisture which is necessary.
• A rooting hormone is also helpful to ensure better results. Just dip the stem in the powder prior to planting and tap off any excess. (The geranium will do fine without it.)

Hydrangea

I am going to attempt some cuttings with my hydrangeas this year. The instructions are basically the same as above although it may be beneficial to dip these cuttings in a rooting hormone prior to planting. A six inch cut from the top of the plant and removal of the lower leaves is also recommended.

Other lovely flowers that can be propagated by cuttings are:

• Gardenia 
• Begonia 
• Impatiens 
• Jasmine
• Magnolia
• Rose
• Wisteria

Are you ready to create your own little Garden of Eden?