When to Take Hibiscus Cuttings for Successful Propagation

Hibiscus are beautiful, tropical-looking flowers that can add vibrant color to any garden. With large colorful blooms that can grow up to 6 inches across, hibiscus are ideal for attracting hummingbirds butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The good news is hibiscus is also an easy plant to propagate – meaning you can multiply your plants for free! In this article, we’ll look at the best time to take hibiscus cuttings for successful propagation.

An Overview of Propagating Hibiscus from Cuttings

Propagating hibiscus from cuttings is the preferred method because it guarantees the new plant will be genetically identical to the parent plant To propagate from cuttings, you’ll take a cutting from a healthy hibiscus plant and transplant it to start a new, genetically identical plant

It’s important to take cuttings at the right time of year for the best chance of success. The ideal time is during the warmer months when the plant is actively growing. Late spring to early summer is perfect.

Here’s a quick overview of how to propagate hibiscus from cuttings:

• Take a 4-6 inch cutting from new, healthy growth on the parent plant. Look for smooth, green stems.

• Remove all but the top few leaves from the cutting.

• Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage new roots.

• Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil.

• Cover with a plastic bag to retain moisture and warmth.

• Place in indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist.

• Once roots form and the cutting shows new growth, repot it into a larger container.

When is the Best Time to Take Hibiscus Cuttings?

As mentioned above, late spring to early summer is the ideal time for taking hibiscus cuttings. This ensures the parent plant is actively growing and the cutting will root quickly.

Here are more details on the best times:

• Spring – Look to take cuttings in late spring after any danger of frost has passed. This allows the cutting time to root before winter arrives.

• Summer – Early to mid summer is prime time for taking hibiscus cuttings. The long, warm days encourage fast root formation.

• Fall – You can take cuttings into early fall. However, the cutting needs enough time to root before winter dormancy.

• Winter – Avoid taking cuttings in winter when the plant is dormant. Spring or summer is better.

The most important factor is looking for new, tender growth on the parent plant, a sign that it is actively growing. Then you can take healthy cuttings that will readily form roots. Taking cuttings from dormant wood is difficult.

Step-By-Step Guide to Taking Hibiscus Cuttings

Follow these simple steps for taking hibiscus cuttings at the right time for the best chance of success:

Select the stems

Look for stems on the hibiscus plant that show new, tender growth. This indicates the parent plant is healthy and actively growing. The stems should bend easily without snapping.

Take cuttings in the morning for the freshest stems. Use sharp, clean shears to avoid crushing the stems.

Cut the stems

Cut 4-6 inches from the tips of the stems. Each cutting should have 2-4 leaf nodes along the stem. Avoid taking cuttings from blooming stems.

Immediately place the cuttings in water while you prepare the rooting mix. This keeps them hydrated.

Trim the leaves

Retain only 1-2 leaves at the tip of each cutting. Strip off the remaining leaves by pinching them off gently. Avoid tearing leaves off by hand as this can damage the stem.

Dip in rooting hormone

Dip the cut end of each stem in rooting hormone. This contains compounds that encourage faster root growth.

Plant in soil

Fill small pots with a loose, well-draining soil mix. Good options are half potting mix and half perlite or coarse sand.

Moisten the soil then use a pencil to poke holes for the cuttings. Gently place each into a hole then firm the soil around it.

Cover and grow

Cover each potted cutting with a clear plastic bag, securing it closed with a rubber band or twist tie. This maintains a humid environment.

Place the pots in a warm area with indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Transplant

In 4-8 weeks, the cuttings should have grown new roots and leaves. Carefully transplant into larger containers, keeping them indoors until all danger of frost has passed. Then you can move them outdoors!

Tips for Success When Taking Hibiscus Cuttings

Follow these tips to ensure success propagating hibiscus from cuttings:

• Take multiple cuttings from different stems to increase your chances. Not all cuttings may root.

• Use a sharp, clean knife or pruners to avoid crushing or damaging stems.

• Select only vigorous, new growth that snaps easily. Avoid thick, woody stems.

• Dip cuttings in rooting hormone to speed up root formation.

• Use a light, well-draining soilless mix and perlite for best drainage.

• Keep the cuttings warm, humid, and shaded until roots form.

• Plant tender new cuttings outdoors only after frost danger has passed.

• Maintain even moisture in the soil. Don’t let cuttings dry out.

• Transplant into larger pots once the cuttings are well-rooted.

Common Questions about Hibiscus Cuttings

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about taking hibiscus cuttings:

What is the best rooting hormone for hibiscus cuttings?
Use a powder rooting hormone that contains both IBA and NAA. These encourage fast root growth.

How long does it take for hibiscus cuttings to root?
Typically hibiscus cuttings will root in 4-8 weeks. Check for visible roots protruding from the bottom of the pot.

Should I use bottom heat for rooting hibiscus cuttings?
Bottom heat can speed up rooting but is not essential. Room temperature of 70-80°F is sufficient.

What causes hibiscus cuttings not to root?
Cuttings fail to root if the stem is too thick and woody, the soil mix doesn’t drain well, or temperatures are too low. Taking cuttings out of dormancy also causes failure.

Can I root hibiscus cuttings in just water?
Yes, you can root hibiscus cuttings in water. Change the water every few days to prevent rotting. Mixing in a little honey can help prevent bacteria.

Should I mist my hibiscus cuttings?
Light misting helps increase humidity for tender new cuttings. But avoid excessive moisture on the leaves which encourages rot and fungus.

Conclusion

Propagating hibiscus by cuttings is an easy, low-cost way to add more plants to your garden. For the highest success rate, be sure to take cuttings when the parent plant is actively growing in late spring through summer. This ensures the cuttings root quickly to produce new hibiscus plants identical to the original.