Question
I found a Bogenvia plant I love and want to start to grow in my yard. May I start a new plant from a cutting? If so how?
Thanks so much!!
Jill

Answer
Hi Jill:

This is a tender perennial. A look at the plant tag should tell you the growing zone and if its yours or better then you're ok. It probably is if they sell them there. If you live in the right climate for them to winter over, then yes you can take cuttings from your Bogenvia to grow outside.

Taking cuttings is the same for most plants. First you must make sure everything you use is very clean. In a clean pail mix your soil with the water so you make sure the soil is damp right through. I like to add a little Damp Off to my water. Use a soilless mix like pro mix or one that is formulated for seeds and cuttings. Just make sure it has no fertilizer in it. You want the soil wet but not too wet. Squeeze a handful and some moisture should come out but not a lot. Fill your pots and make a little hole in the center with your finger or something else that will make a small hole.

Take your cuttings: With a sharp knife or razor blade cut a 5 or 6 inch piece from the growing tip, cutting just below a leaf. All roots and branches come from a leaf joint. Remove all but the top 4 or 5 leaves. Dip about 1/2 inch of the cut end in rooting hormone. It comes in powder or gel, either is OK as long as it's for soft wood cuttings. I use Stim-root NO. 1. After it's dipped put it in the hole and cover it in, and you're done.

Keep the soil moist but not overly wet. They will look wilted at first but that will change as it starts to grow roots. You will know it's rooted when it starts to show new growth. Wait until it is rooted well before you set it out.

Bogenvia is naturally a vine so to keep it a bushy plant you will have to prune it regularily. As it gets long shoots, trim them back by a third.



Hope this helps                     Myrna