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We have three Bouganvilla 'sticks' with wax over both ends. My husband bought them at a market. To plant them, what do we have to do? Do we need to remove the wax? Do they need rooting powder? Do we start them off in water or in compost? Help, please!
I don't know if this will help but this is how I root hydrangea cuttings (woody also). First I cut the bottom 1/4 to 1/2 inch off. Then I soak in a glass of warm(starting out) (not hot) water over night, on a windowsill is best. Then I place in a small pot (plastic is best as it doesn't wick the water away like clay does) with some really rich potting soil, lots of peat and compost and perlite for drainage. I keep this very wet for at least a week (still on the windowsill) and then moist after. The roots usually develop within 2-3 weeks. I allow it to become almost root bound before I transplant. I have never tried rooting compound, I keep everything as organic as possible. This is how I root for separate plants. If I want to develop a continuous row, I just bend an attached stem to the ground, cover it with rich dirt and put a brick or rock on top to keep it down. It grows a new plant from that stem, then I just move down the row as the plants develop long enough stems. Works for many different flowering shrubs.
My minor in college was botany. I hope this helps.
Hi there,
I was able to find this online about propagation of bouganvilla:
(Make sure your "stick" is at least 6 inches long):
Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix. Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting. Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic. Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window seal or under fluorescent lighting.
After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem. If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering and be sure to keep the soil moist. The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.
However, I've been looking and haven't found anything about this wax. Is there anyway your husband can return to the market and ask the seller if it should be removed? If not, I'm sure calling a local nursery would help you get the answer to the wax question. Meanwhile, I'll keep looking online.
Good luck.
Thanks, that's really helpful. Unfortunately, he bought them in Holland while on business there, and we live in France, but asking the local nurseries is a good idea. I'm really grateful for your advice.
Well, my husband's just planted them (finally) so I'll let you know of any progress. Thanks for all your help!
onderful advice. am planning to pot-plant in my terrace. wish me good luck. thanks jai
Excellent, thanks.
