How to propagate geraniums. Discover how to propagate geraniums by the cuttings method.
Unlike bulb flowers, the common garden geranium is an annual flower and will not grow back if left out to die back during a frost. If you would like to save your geraniums, you can re-pot them and bring them inside for the winter. You can also propagate geraniums through cuttings. If performed successfully, the cuttings will reproduce, root, and grow throughout the winter, ready for spring planting. Discover how to propagate geraniums from cuttings below.
How to Propagate Geraniums from Cuttings
Procure your cuttings by snipping a three to five-inch piece from the stem with a sharp knife.
Dip the cut end into a growth hormone.
Fill a starter container or small pot with planting media, such as perlite or vermiculite, at least four inches deep. Stick the cutting into the soil at a depth of at least one inch. Strip off any leaves from the cutting before inserting them in the soil. If placing more than one cutting in a container, ensure several inches are around each cutting to allow for sufficient airflow and plant growth.
Water thoroughly, then cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to help retain humidity and moisture. Check this periodically to ensure that the soil is still damp and water as necessary.
Place in a sunny window that does not get hit directly by sunlight for long periods.
Replant in individual pots once the cuttings have rooted. Rooting generally occurs after 6-8 weeks. Water as needed to keep the soil damp over the next few weeks. Once the plant has shown growth, move to a sunnier location. Pinch as necessary to promote stem growth.
The flower should be ready for outdoor planting as soon as the last spring frost has passed.
Resources
University of Nebraska-Lincoln – Overwintering Geraniums and Propagating Geraniums by Cuttings
Extension Education in Bexar County – Geraniums-How to Grow and Propagate
UMass Amherst – Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment – Growing Geraniums
