How to propagate bougainvillea from cuttings

1. Select branches

Bougainvillea is usually propagated by cuttings. Cut 10 cm long one-year-old thick branches, preferably woody, that is, more like branches, darker in color and harder. Woody branches are more likely to root than young branches. Keep 2-3 buds on the branches and 1-2 leaves on the upper part. It is best if the incision is inclined, so that there is a larger contact area with the soil and the bottom can be soaked with rooting water, which is more conducive to root growth.

2. Pot soil preparation

The potting soil needs to be specially prepared. Choose soil that is loose and breathable. Generally, you can put some perlite, vermiculite, etc. in the garden soil to enhance drainage capacity. You can also add some peat soil to improve the pH level. In addition, the potting soil should be disinfected before cutting to avoid infection of the incision.

3. Shade and moisturize

After cuttings, it is not easy to place them directly under sunlight. You can first place them in a place with scattered light. At the same time, insert a few wooden sticks around the branches and cover them with plastic bags to effectively retain moisture. It should be noted that bags cannot be used in summer, otherwise the high temperature will easily suffocate the branches. You can take down the bag at night, spray it with water and keep the environment moist.

4. Control water and fertilizer

Water thoroughly right after cuttings are made to provide the branches with a fully moist growing environment. When the soil in the pot is dry, water it in time and water it thoroughly to avoid water shortage during the rooting period. Do not fertilize after cuttings, because the new roots are relatively fragile and cannot accept fertilizer well.

5. Cut flowers in time

Within one and a half months after cuttings, if flower buds appear, they must be cut off in time, otherwise it will greatly waste nutrients and cause the plant to not grow tall.