Question:
Can Rosemary be propagated from a cutting? We have a large bush from which we would like to take a cutting and plant it in a big pot. aAnswer:
- Rosemary can be successfully propagated from cuttings.
- You can take cuttings at any time of the year, except during its blooming period. You can even root sprigs purchased from the grocery store.
- To root the cuttings, you can use either soil or water. Choose stem cuttings rather than a single leaf or needle, as the latter won’t work effectively. Opt for four to six inches long softwood cuttings, typically found at the terminal ends of the shoots.
- Older hardwood cuttings are more challenging to root. Start by stripping off the bottom two to three inches of leaves from the cutting.
- Roots will develop from the exposed nodes, the small bumps along the stem. You can twist, pinch, or gently pull off the lower leaves with your fingers, but be sure to leave at least five to six sets of leaves near the top. Place the prepared cuttings in a container filled with moist potting soil.
- Taking more cuttings than you think you'll need is a good idea, as some may not take root.
- Alternatively, if you place the cuttings in water, they will root more quickly, usually within four weeks. You will know the cuttings have successfully rooted when you see new growth at the top.
Question:
I've had a Corn Plant in my living room for some time now. However, the plant has lost many lower leaves and resembles a palm tree. Where should I cut it to encourage new growth at the base? Should I repot it now or wait? How long will it take to see new growth?Answer:
- The Corn Plant, or Dracaena fragrans, is a tropical African evergreen tree.
- It grows relatively slowly and features thick canes or stems that produce long, narrow leaves resembling stalks of corn, which grow upward.
- Corn plants make excellent houseplants because of their tall and narrow structure, making them ideal for corners and as furniture accents. However, if you have cats or dogs, it's best to avoid this plant, as it is toxic to both.
- The palm tree-like appearance results from the oldest leaves naturally dying off and exposing the trunk. You can prune the plant at any point along the stem, and new shoots will develop within six to eight weeks.
- While this may feel like a long wait when looking at it daily, I recommend repotting it into a larger pot and adding a new plant at the base. The new Dracaena can be of the same variety or different, since many options are available. It's important to choose a plant that is proportional to the original. You can cut the original plant to any desired height or leave it uncut.