How to Propagate Hibiscus? A Detailed Guide to the Latest Propagation Methods
Hibiscus is used quite widely in our country. Hibiscus has the characteristics of large flowers and brilliant colors, blooming all year round, and has considerable ornamental value in the gardens of many cities. It is also distributed throughout our country as a potted plant, so there are quite a lot of people growing hibiscus now. So when growing hibiscus, how should it be propagated? Below, the editor brings you the propagation methods for hibiscus. Let's take a look together!
1. Propagation by seed
Seed propagation is a fairly commonly used propagation method for hibiscus. The seed coat of hibiscus is quite hard, so before sowing we need to treat the seeds, as only then can the germination rate be improved. First we need to scarify the seed coat, or soak it in sulfuric acid for about half an hour to corrode it. Then take it out and rinse it clean with clear water before sowing. After sowing, the temperature should be controlled at around 30 degrees, and it will germinate in about 3 days. If it is a new hybrid variety, then because its performance is relatively weak, grafting should be the main method of propagation.
2. Propagation by grafting
For hibiscus grafting propagation, it is best to choose spring, because this is the peak growing period for hibiscus, and after the scion survives there is a longer growth period, allowing it to grow fully. The rootstock can be chosen from vigorously growing varieties in the same genus, but note the growth vigor, branching pattern and flowering period between the scion and rootstock, and it is best to keep them similar. Then the grafting method is generally the relatively simple cleft grafting, and the scion should likewise be chosen from vigorous branches, kept at roughly the same thickness as the rootstock.
Then keep the terminal bud of the branch and about 3 leaves, cut the lower part into a wedge shape, then remove the top shoot of the rootstock, split the middle, and directly insert the branch and set it straight. After inserting, use a grafting clip or plastic strip to secure it, avoiding direct sunlight. At the same time, maintain good humidity to prevent the scion leaves from wilting due to lack of water. A plastic bag can be placed over the scion to retain moisture, and after about one month the scion will survive. After it survives, slowly uncover the plastic bag and supplement light for it.
3. Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings are now the most used propagation method for hibiscus. Under normal circumstances it can be done all year round, but the best cutting time is around May to June. If cuttings need to be taken in winter, then it should be done in a greenhouse. First cut off vigorous branches grown in the current year, mainly semi-lignified ones, cut them into branches of about 11 cm, remove the lower leaves, and keep about two leaves at the top. Then note that the cut should be kept smooth, insert it directly into clean river sand, and spray water appropriately every day to maintain humidity. Pay attention to shading, cover well with film, and it will root in about three weeks. If there is a terminal bud, then it will root even faster. After about a month and a half, it can be potted up.
The above is a brief introduction to hibiscus propagation methods. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only, and we hope it can help everyone!