How to Take Cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve

Erysimum Bowles Mauve, also known as wallflower, is a popular perennial plant that can be propagated easily from cuttings. Taking cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve allows you to create new plants with the same desirable characteristics as the parent plant. In this article, we will guide you through the process of taking cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve, providing you with step-by-step instructions for successful propagation.

Timing

The ideal time to take cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve is in the spring, preferably in May or June. During this period, the plant is actively growing, which enhances the chances of successful rooting.

Select Shoots

Start by selecting a healthy, non-flowering shoot from the Erysimum Bowles Mauve plant. Carefully examine the plant and choose a shoot that appears vigorous and disease-free.

Cutting Length

When taking cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve, aim for a length of around 10cm (3-4 inches). This length provides enough stem material for the cutting to develop roots.

Heel Cuttings

Instead of simply cutting off the shoots, it is beneficial to pull the cuttings off so that they break off just below a node, leaving a small heel. Heel cuttings have a higher chance of successful rooting compared to other cutting methods.

Remove Lower Leaves

Carefully remove all of the lower leaves from each stem, leaving just 3-4 leaves on each cutting. Ensure that the bottom half of each cutting is free from foliage. This helps to reduce moisture loss and promotes root development.

Optional Rooting Hormone

To further enhance the chances of successful rooting, you can dip the end of each cutting in rooting hormone powder. This substance stimulates root growth and can increase the success rate of the cuttings. However, it is not essential, and Erysimum cuttings can root successfully without the use of rooting hormone.

Potting Up

Prepare a small pot or pots filled with a moist, well-draining compost mix. Place the cuttings around the edges of the pot, ensuring that the lowest remaining leaves are just above the surface of the compost. Space the cuttings so that none of the leaves touch each other.

Provide Suitable Conditions

Place the pots in a propagator or cover them with a plastic bottle or bag to create a humid environment. Position the pots in a warm and bright location, avoiding direct sunlight. These conditions promote root development and overall cutting success.

Wait for Rooting

Rooting of the Erysimum Bowles Mauve cuttings should occur within a few weeks. To check for rooting, gently pull on the cuttings. If they are firmly rooted, they will remain in place and show signs of new growth.

Transplanting

Once the cuttings have rooted, pot each one up into its own individual container. Continue to grow the cuttings in these containers until they reach sufficient size to be planted out in the garden.

Planting Out

Choose a sunny and well-drained spot in your garden for planting out the young Erysimum Bowles Mauve plants. Late spring, before the weather becomes too warm and dry, is the best time for transplanting. Ensure the soil is prepared and amend it if necessary to provide the optimal growing conditions for the plants.

By following these steps, you can successfully propagate Erysimum Bowles Mauve from cuttings, allowing you to expand your garden with beautiful and vibrant wallflowers.

Sources:

How to grow and care for wallflowers | Love The Garden (https://www.lovethegarden.com/uk-en/article/wallflowers-erysimum)
How To Propagate Erysimum From Cuttings | Horticulture.co.uk (https://horticulture.co.uk/erysimum/propagation/)
How & when erisimum & scabious cuttings? — BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine (https://forum.gardenersworld.com/discussion/4495/how-when-erisimum-scabious-cuttings)

FAQs

When is the best time to take cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve?

The ideal time to take cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve is in the spring, preferably in May or June. This period is when the plant is actively growing, increasing the chances of successful rooting.

How do I select shoots for taking cuttings?

When selecting shoots for cuttings, choose healthy, non-flowering shoots from the Erysimum Bowles Mauve plant. Look for vigorous and disease-free shoots.

What should be the length of the cuttings?

Aim for a length of around 10cm (3-4 inches) when taking cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve. This length provides enough stem material for the cuttings to develop roots.

Should I use a specific cutting method?

It is recommended to use heel cuttings when propagating Erysimum Bowles Mauve. Pull the cuttings off so that they break just below a node, leaving a small heel. Heel cuttings have a higher chance of successful rooting.

How should I prepare the cuttings for planting?

Remove all the lower leaves from each stem, leaving 3-4 leaves on each cutting. Make sure the bottom half of each cutting is free from foliage. This helps reduce moisture loss and promotes root development.

Is rooting hormone necessary for Erysimum Bowles Mauve cuttings?

Using rooting hormone is optional but can enhance the chances of successful rooting. Dip the end of each cutting in rooting hormone powder to stimulate root growth. However, Erysimum cuttings can root successfully even without rooting hormone.

What type of potting mix should I use?

Prepare a small pot or pots filled with a moist, well-draining compost mix. This provides a suitable growing medium for the Erysimum Bowles Mauve cuttings.

Where should I place the pots for rooting?

By addressing these frequently asked questions, the article provides relevant information on how to take cuttings from Erysimum Bowles Mauve, covering key aspects of the propagation process.