Can Mandevilla Be Propagated Through Cuttings?

Taking Cuttings

• Take cuttings from new growth in early spring or early summer. Softwood cuttings should be light green in color, while slightly older cuttings will have lost their light green hue, but aren't yet very dark in color. Cuttings must be 2 to 3 inches in length. Remove all but the top two leaves on older growth (summer growth) and cut off the tip and the bottom set of leaves on new growth of softwood cuttings. Removing the leaves allows the cutting to focus its energy resources on root development rather than foliage. Use clean, sharp pruning shears or a small knife to take cuttings.

Potting Medium

• Make your own rooting medium by mixing sand and peat at a 50-50 ratio. Such a mixture retains moisture well, but also provides excellent drainage to reduce the possibility of fungal disease in cuttings. Wet the mixture before planting so you don't dislodge the cutting from the soil when watering after planting.

Planting Cuttings

• Dip the cut end of the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. This natural substance will encourage root growth and stop the latex flow from the stem. Insert the cuttings into the soil and tamp down gently to secure them. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag. Open the bag each day for an hour or so to release built-up moisture, or use a tray with a sturdy clear plastic cover with holes.

Repotting

• Cuttings could take anywhere from 20 to 70 days to root. Once the cuttings have developed roots, transplant them to 3-inch pots and pinch back any new growth to encourage the young plant to branch out. When that has happened, transplant the young plants into slightly larger pots to allow for more root growth. When you're sure that the plants are actively growing and they hold the soil when gently tugged, it's safe to transplant then outdoors. Select a site in full sun, but provide afternoon shade in very warm climates. The soil should be well draining. Mandevilla also makes an excellent container plant.