One of the quickest ways to enjoy plumeria flowers is to plant plumeria cuttings. One of the big advantages of propagating plumeria plants from cuttings is that the buyer is able to choose very specifically the plant he or she wants, based on the color, growth habits, fragrance or a number of other desirable traits that are present in any particular plumeria variety. Following tried and tested methods is the best insurance for one's own success in rooting plumeria cuttings, even the difficult ones.
2. One of the quickest ways to enjoy plumeria
flowers is to plant plumeria cuttings. It cannot
be emphasized enough to purchase plumeria
cuttings only from reputable retailers to get
good quality. Prices vary and prices do not
always translate into quality. Higher prices
though often reflect well known plumeria
varieties.
One of the big advantages of propagating
plumeria plants from cuttings is that the buyer is
able to choose very specifically the plant he/she
wants, based on the color, growth habit,
fragrance or a number of other desirable traits
that are present in a particular plumeria variety.
3. Cuttings should be at least 12 inches in length
and taken from mature wood. Immature cuttings
taken from green wood are very hard to root even
though it can be done.
Certain varieties of Plumeria obtusa and some
red colored plumerias are harder to root and may
take longer to develop their root system.
Discuss with the plumeria retailer the shipping
arrangements that will guarantee that your quality
plumeria cutting will arrive in good condition
particularly during the colder months of the year.
4. While awaiting the arrival of your newly ordered
cutting take the time to get all the necessary
equipment to properly plant the plumeria cutting.
Before planting the cutting it is recommended to
have all necessary items prepared, including the
pot, plant stake, rooting hormone which contains
a fungicide, tie-ups, and premixed potting medium
ready and available.
5. Based on the size of the plumeria cutting one
ordered, one needs to have a container large
enough to accommodate the cutting as well as
allowing room for the roots to develop and grow. A
proper size container is also needed for the
stability of the cutting.
The potting medium has to be premixed to
provide excellent drainage. Otherwise, the cutting
may rot if the medium retains too much moisture.
6. After the pot has been filled with the premixed
potting medium, water it thoroughly and make
sure all the water has drained prior to planting the
cutting.
Now it is time to plant the cutting. It is important
not to plant the cutting too deep for a variety of
reasons. Plumeria cuttings develop roots only at
the very bottom of the cutting.
7. The next step is to wet the bottom of the cutting
with lukewarm water, shake off any excess water,
insert the cutting in the rooting hormone, and
insert it into the potting medium. Add the plant
stake next to the plumeria cutting and tie the
cutting to the plant stake with tie-ups.
The first step in the rooting process is the
development of callus tissue through which the
roots emerge. It is crucial at this time of the
rooting process not to water the cutting to avoid
stem rot.
8. Plumeria cuttings have such a strong life force in
them that they start to develop leaves and
inflorescenses without even having started the
rooting process. One can find out if any roots
have developed by giving the cutting a light tug to
test for resistance. Any resistance indicates some
root development.
During this time instead of watering the cutting,
mist the cutting daily to prevent it from
dehydrating.
9. Plumeria cuttings may root within weeks or may
take several months to develop roots depending
on the particular plumeria variety. Following tried
and tested methods is the best insurance for
one's own success in rooting plumeria cuttings,
even the difficult ones. Enjoy the fruits of your
labors and the beauty and fragrance of your
newly grown plumeria plant for years to come!