Learn to propagate by cuttings and you'll never need to buy flowers again - just pinch off a branch, stick it in a pot, and it can grow into a full pot

Fellow gardening enthusiasts surely all have the habit of going to the flower market to buy flowers, which not only costs money but also means worrying about being cheated by flower vendors. In fact, many flowers don't need to be bought at the flower market - a simple pinch of a branch can propagate a pot of flowers. Through simple propagation you can have a pot of the flower you like, and never need to go to the flower market to buy one again. So, which flowers are easy to propagate and will grow from just a pinched-off branch?

Christmas cactus

The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) is relatively easy to care for. It is suited to growing in a warm, humid environment, dislikes direct strong light, tolerates semi-shade, and is not cold-hardy. The leaves of the Christmas cactus are fairly thick and fleshy, with rather showy flowers blooming at the tips, giving it high ornamental value.

Propagating the Christmas cactus is also fairly simple. It is best to choose a strong branch 3 months after flowering, or to take cuttings in autumn, then insert the Christmas cactus cutting into sandy soil, water it thoroughly, and place it in a warm, humid, well-ventilated environment. Basically, in about 7 days it will take root and sprout.

String of pearls

The string of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) has strong adaptability. It is suited to growing in a warm, humid environment, dislikes direct strong light, tolerates semi-shade and drought, and can go a long time without watering. The leaves of the string of pearls are fairly thick and fleshy, round and very cute, with stems and leaves hanging down naturally, swaying gently in the breeze, which has its own special charm.

Propagating the string of pearls is relatively simple. Just cut a section of stem about 8cm long, lay it on sandy soil, then sprinkle a layer of soil on top, keep the soil slightly moist, and grow it in a brighter light environment. After about a month, it will take root.

Cuban oregano

Cuban oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus) is relatively easy to care for. It is suited to growing in a warm environment and likes ample light, but also tolerates shade, and dislikes waterlogging. The leaves of Cuban oregano are emerald green, with a thin layer of fine fuzz on the leaves. Growing it at home gives a dignified and elegant feel.

To propagate Cuban oregano, cut a section of stem about 7cm long, then insert it directly into sandy soil, and keep the soil slightly moist. Alternatively, soak the branch directly in clean water with the temperature kept at around 20°C, and it will quickly take root and sprout.