Perfect timing for lantana propagation: July is ideal for multiplying this attractive flower and acquiring free plants
In the heart of summer, garden enthusiasts can multiply their flowering plants without extra spending by learning to take lantana cuttings. These vibrant, heat-resistant plants, which thrive in mild or warm regions, are perfect candidates for propagation during July and August.
### Steps for Taking Lantana Cuttings
1. **Select Healthy Stems**: Choose healthy, green stems from your lantana plant, ensuring they are not flowering to increase chances of success.
2. **Prepare the Cutting**: Use clean, sharp tools like Fiskars snips to cut stems with leaves, about four or more inches in length. Place the cut ends in a bucket of water to prevent drying out.
3. **Trim Foliage**: Remove most of the leaves from the cutting, leaving one or two at the top. This helps prevent moisture loss and promotes root growth.
4. **Use Rooting Hormone (Optional)**: Dip the bottom inch of the cutting in water, then in rooting hormone powder, such as the one available from Amazon, to enhance root development.
5. **Plant in Potting Mix**: Fill small pots with well-drained potting mix, ideally with some grit added to improve drainage. Plant the lower half of the cutting (about two inches) into the mix.
6. **Water and Provide Care**: Water the pots thoroughly. Place them in a shaded area, such as a cold frame or unheated greenhouse, to prevent direct sunlight.
7. **Monitor and Maintain Moisture**: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Check the moisture every few days, especially in hot weather.
### Best Practices
- **Timing**: July and August are suitable for taking lantana cuttings, but ensure the plants are well-watered and protected from extreme heat. - **Temperature and Location**: Keep the cuttings in a location with indirect sunlight to avoid scorching. Cold frames or greenhouses are ideal for maintaining consistent conditions. - **Soil Conditions**: Use well-drained potting mix to prevent rot and ensure healthy root development. - **Root Development**: Roots should appear within three to four weeks. Once established, you can repot the cuttings into individual containers.
### Additional Tips for Summer Propagation
- **Watch for Heat Stress**: During hot weather, ensure the cuttings do not dry out by monitoring the soil moisture closely. - **Mulch Around Potted Plants**: If you are hardening off or planting in outdoor pots, consider adding a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and protect against extreme temperatures.
By following these steps and best practices, you can successfully propagate lantana cuttings even in the hot summer months of July and August. Additionally, you can learn how to take honeysuckle cuttings, another great way to make more of your favourite plants for free.
Remember, lantanas are often used to inject colour and joy into borders or pots, especially during midsummer. So, start taking cuttings now, and enjoy the blooms of your newly propagated lantanas next summer!
Greenhouses provide an excellent environment for propagating lantana cuttings, as they offer protection from extreme heat and allow for consistent temperature and light conditions necessary for root development. Additionally, home-and-garden enthusiasts can extend their lifestyle into gardening by learning the art of propagation, such as taking lantana cuttings during the summer months.
