How to propagate geraniums? These methods are simple and easy to learn

For home gardening, pot cutting propagation is generally the most practical method. The best time for cuttings is April to May or August to September, and the specific cutting time should be determined according to the local suitable temperature (18°C to 20°C) and growing season; the potting soil should be loose, well-aerated and well-drained. It is best to use a mix of one part sand, one part perlite and one part leaf mold, or medium-coarse river sand, matured soil or expanded perlite, all of which must be disinfected by methods such as exposure to strong sunlight before use.

Cuttings can be taken in conjunction with spring and autumn pruning. Select healthy one-year-old young shoots free of pests and diseases as cuttings, about 8 cm long. At 0.2 cm below a node, cut with a knife into a horse-ear shape. Let the wound dry first before inserting, otherwise it is prone to rot. You can also dip the cut end in a little rooting powder to encourage rooting. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, keeping 1 to 2 leaves at the top. If the leaves are large, you can also cut off 1/3 or 1/2 to reduce water evaporation. When inserting the cutting, first use a thin bamboo stick to poke a small hole in the potting soil, then insert the cutting and press firmly with your fingers so that it fits closely with the soil. After inserting, place it in a shady spot, avoid direct strong light, and water once thoroughly without allowing waterlogging, keeping it moist. Under suitable temperature conditions, it will root in about half a month. When the seedling grows to 1 to 5 cm tall, pinch it back to encourage side branches. At the same time, pay attention to applying dilute nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium compound liquid fertilizer, or decomposed dilute cake fertilizer and other organic fertilizers, to promote robust growth. It can bloom in the winter of the same year or the spring of the following year.