Materials Needed:
- Healthy hibiscus plant
- Onion
- Clean, sharp knife or pruning shears
- Small pots
- Well-draining potting mix
- Water
- Clear plastic bag or mini greenhouse (optional)
Steps:
- Select a Healthy Hibiscus Plant: Choose a robust hibiscus plant free from disease and pests.
- Prepare the Cuttings: Cut a healthy 4-6 inch branch from the parent plant, free of flowers or buds, using clean, sharp pruning shears or a knife.
- Prepare the Onion: Cut an onion in half. Make a small hole in the cut surface of the onion, just large enough to insert the base of the hibiscus cutting.
- Insert the Cutting: Place the base of the hibiscus cutting into the hole in the onion. The onion’s compounds will stimulate root growth.
- Plant the Cutting: Fill a small pot with well-draining potting mix. Insert the onion-attached cutting into the soil, ensuring it is stable and upright. Firm the soil around the base to provide support.
- Water the Cutting: Lightly water the soil to settle it around the cutting. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to rot.
- Create a Humid Environment: Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or place it in a mini greenhouse to create a humid environment. Ensure some air circulation to prevent mold growth.
- Provide Proper Lighting: Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the cutting and hinder growth.
- Monitor and Maintain: Check the soil moisture regularly and water sparingly when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging.
- Wait for Roots to Develop: Roots typically start to develop within a few weeks. Gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, indicating root growth.
- Transplant to a Larger Pot: Once the cutting has established roots and begins to show new growth, transplant it to a larger pot with similar well-draining soil.
Tips for Success:
- Avoid Overwatering: Hibiscus cuttings are susceptible to rot. Ensure the soil is well-draining and water sparingly.
- Use Sterile Tools: Always use clean, sharp tools to make cuttings to prevent disease.
- Gradual Sun Exposure: Gradually expose the rooted cutting to more sunlight to prevent shock.
