How to Propagate Hibiscus? A Full Analysis of Common Methods and Techniques
Hibiscus is a deciduous shrub plant in the mallow family (Malvaceae) and is a very common flower species in courtyards and gardens in our country. Its ornamental value is very high, it has a strong dust-retention function, and it is also a major landscaping plant. In addition, hibiscus flowers are rich in protein, vitamin C and various amino acids, so their nutritional value is very high. When growing hibiscus, how to propagate it is a rather important issue, so today we bring you the propagation methods for hibiscus. Let's take a look!
1. Cuttage propagation
Cuttage propagation is generally carried out each spring, and can also be done during the autumn-winter transition. Hibiscus branches have strong rooting ability and a high survival rate. When pruning and shaping, we can cut vigorous branches less than two years old from the mother plant's growth, then cut the branches into small sections of about 11 cm. Next, prepare the cutting medium; the cutting medium must be sufficiently loose, highly permeable and have normal drainage and irrigation, mainly sandy soil. Then, before cutting, poke small holes for the cuttings, cut the base of the cutting into a slanted end with a smooth top, and insert it vertically into the medium. After cutting, water at regular times every day, then mound soil around the base of the mother plant to encourage more branch growth. When the shoots have grown for about one year, transplant them with the soil, which can effectively increase the survival rate.
2. Seed propagation
First, we need to harvest hibiscus seeds in autumn, dry the seeds and then store them, and then sow them in spring of the following year. Because hibiscus seeds have relatively weak germination ability, they cannot be sown as soon as they are harvested, and before sowing, the seeds must be soaked to promote germination. Also prepare a seedbed; the seedbed soil preparation is similar to the cutting medium, ensuring sufficient nutrients. Then sow the seeds into the medium soil in spring, cover with a layer of fine soil, and do a good job of regulating temperature and humidity. Under normal management, they will germinate in about 3 weeks. After germination, carry out seedling management well and transplant at the right time.
3. Division propagation
Division propagation is also a commonly used propagation method for hibiscus, generally carried out in early spring. Before dividing, select a mature, vigorously growing, pest-free and healthy plant as the mother plant. Then dig out the mother plant, taking care not to damage the plant's roots, and clean the roots. Next, take 2-3 adjacent main branches of the plant as a new plant and separate them from the mother plant. When separating, likewise take care not to damage the plant's roots, to prevent affecting the subsequent growth of both the new and old plants. After separation, plant the new plants into the prepared soil, then carry out seedling management.
The above is a brief introduction to hibiscus propagation methods. Hibiscus propagation is the key to ensuring its efficient and continuous cultivation. When propagating, we should determine our propagation method according to the planting purpose. For example, seed propagation is suitable for large-scale cultivation, while cuttage and division are suitable for household potted planting. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only. Friends who want to learn more related information, please continue to follow us!