How to propagate geraniums by cutting branches

Choose the ideal timing. Early spring and late summer are the best times for successful rooting of cuttings. However, it’s also possible to perform the process in spring, summer, or early fall. Early cuttings will bloom in summer, while those done later will grow stronger and bloom the following summer.

Select a healthy plant. Choose a strong, healthy branch that does not have flowers. (If no other choice is available, you can still use a flowering branch.)

Cutting a branch. Use a sharp scalpel or knife to cut a branch about 7.5-10 cm long. Avoid using pruning scissors, as they may crush the branch. If the mother plant is small, you may cut the branch to half of the above length. The cutting point should be just above the leaf bud.

Trim the lower part of the cutting branch, just beneath the leaf bud. Remove the leaves and rough bark below the leaf petiole. Leave at least two leaves at the top.

Decide whether to support the cutting branch. Geraniums can grow without rooting hormones, and in some cases, using them may even harm the cutting. Some tips suggest dipping the cutting in honey. You may consider this approach if desired.

Prepare the plant's growing medium. Add root fertilizer or peat moss mix specifically for seeds or cuttings into a plant pot. If these types of fertilizers are unavailable, you can mix peat moss with construction sand at a 1:1 ratio.

Create a hole in the growing medium with your finger, a stick, or a pencil. It should be deep enough to allow the plant to drain easily at the bottom of the pot.

Carefully insert the cutting into the growing medium.

Water the growing medium to keep it moist. Be sure to water sparingly to avoid flooding the cutting and limit fungal growth.

Place the pots in a warm area. The cutting needs to be kept in a warm environment to encourage root growth. If possible, use a heating mat or tray to maintain warmth, or place the pot on an indoor windowsill (out of direct sunlight), which is also an ideal spot. If you use a heating device beneath the pot, cooler air around it will not be an issue.

Water just enough to allow the roots to grow, especially when the cutting shows signs of wilting leaves. Generally, keep the growing medium dry. Try to avoid letting water seep into the cutting. Roots will begin to form within about three days, though this may take longer depending on the plant variety and if the air is cool. New shoots will start developing once roots are established, and when you gently shake the cutting, it should stay in place due to the newly formed roots.

• It is important to provide warmth from below to encourage root growth.

• Never keep the compost too wet as it increases the risk of root rot.

• Sharp surgical knife or blade
• Geranium plant
• Fertilizer
• Warm temperature area
• Water
• Honey (optional)
• Pot (container)