If you are growing fuchsias and want to propagate them through cuttings, knowing the right time to do so is crucial. These flowers are absolutely gorgeous, yet they are so easy to grow (so, who wouldn’t want to have more fuchsias in their garden?!).
In this article, we are going to cover the timing and method for taking fuchsia cuttings, making it super easy for you to expand your fuchsia collection!
The Perfect Timing
Taking fuchsia cuttings is the perfect task for the fall season – ideally, fuchsia cuttings should be taken between mid-October to November. Take cuttings when they have a firmer base of the stem, which indicates that they had longer to mature.
When hardwood cuttings are taken, the plant goes dormant due to the upcoming winter season. Over the winter, these dormant cuttings will harden the soil into calluses; and when the plant is in the developing stage, roots will emerge from this surface.
Fuchsia Propagation Tips
So, since fuchsia is one of those plants that are easily propagated from cuttings, it’s important to know when to take the cuttings, but also how to do it properly!
First of all, you should look for hardwood stems (those that are covered in brown bark). Make sure that the cuttings are around the length of a pencil. Cut horizontally at the base below a pair of leaves. Create a sloping cut so that you can distinguish the bottom from the top.
You can use a rooting powder, although it is not necessary.
After you have obtained your cutting, make sure to plant it in a peat-free cutting compost or a high-quality potting mix. Ensure that the container is large enough to plant about 5 cuttings.
Bury half of the cuttings below the soil surface and keep them away from frost. Also water them frequently to keep the soil moist.
Even if you don’t have a propagator, you should expect to see some new shoots in the spring. Instead of a propagator, cover the cuttings with a plastic bag to keep them nice and warm. Once the new shoots appear, it is time to pot your fuchsia cuttings.
Keep in mind that fuchsias hate to be relocated. Therefore, you should strategically plan to find the perfect spot for your new baby fuchsias!
Take Cuttings Any Time!
What we previously discussed was mainly focussed on hardy fuchsias as they are the more common ones. Tender fuchsias are their cousins, and these can be propagated whenever you want.
Tender fuchsia cuttings will root the best in spring and summer. You can take the semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer (those cuttings have just started to turn a little bit woody). Use clean and sterile tools when cutting.
Thesy can be propagated both in water and soil. If you go for water propagation, make sure that the leaves are not submerged in the water. If you are growing them in the soil, provide proper drainage and opt for containers with drainage holes.
Also read: 8 Houseplants To Grow In Water To Avoid Messy Soil!