Growing an Ixora tree from a cutting is a rewarding project for gardeners looking to add this vibrant flowering shrub to their collection. Ixora, with its dense clusters of bright blooms, makes for a beautiful addition to any garden or patio. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to successfully propagate Ixora from cuttings.
What You’ll Need
- Healthy Ixora branch (cutting)
- Pruning shears
- Rooting hormone (optional but helpful)
- Small pot or container
- Well-draining potting mix (ideally with sand or perlite)
- Plastic bag or clear plastic container (for humidity)
Step 1: Select a Healthy Cutting
Start by choosing a healthy Ixora branch. Look for a stem that is semi-hard, around 4–6 inches long, and has several leaves. Avoid mature or woody branches as they are harder to root. Make a clean cut just below a node (the area where a leaf joins the stem), as this is where roots are more likely to develop.
Step 2: Prepare the Cutting
- Remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting, as this part will be inserted into the soil.
- If desired, dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage faster rooting. While not necessary, rooting hormone can increase your chances of success.
Step 3: Prepare the Potting Mix
Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix. Ixora prefers slightly acidic soil, so adding sand or perlite to regular potting mix can help create the ideal environment. Gently press down the soil to remove any air pockets.
Step 4: Plant the Cutting
Insert the prepared Ixora cutting into the soil, burying it about halfway. Firmly press the soil around the cutting to hold it in place. Water lightly to settle the soil, making sure it’s moist but not waterlogged.
Step 5: Maintain High Humidity
To encourage rooting, cover the cutting with a plastic bag or place a clear plastic container over it to create a mini greenhouse effect. This will help maintain high humidity around the cutting. Just be sure to leave a small opening for air circulation to prevent mold.
Step 6: Place in Bright, Indirect Light
Position the pot in a location with bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can stress the cutting, so avoid placing it in direct sun. Keep the temperature warm, ideally between 70–85°F (21–29°C), as Ixora thrives in warmer climates.
Step 7: Water Regularly and Be Patient
Check the moisture level in the soil regularly, and water when it starts to feel dry. Avoid overwatering, as Ixora cuttings are sensitive to root rot. In 4–8 weeks, you should see new growth as roots begin to form.
Step 8: Transplanting
Once the cutting has established roots and is showing signs of new growth, you can transplant it to a larger pot or directly into the garden. Choose a spot with partial sunlight and well-draining soil, and water as needed.
Conclusion
Growing an Ixora tree from a cutting is a straightforward process that rewards you with a beautiful, blooming shrub. With proper care, your Ixora cutting will root and flourish, adding vibrant color to your garden for years to come.