How to Plant Geranium Clippings

Geraniums have long been a garden favorite due to both their versatility and ease of care. With over 10,000 varieties available, there is a geranium to suit every gardener's needs. These flowers can be started from seed, but it is much faster to propagate geraniums by taking clippings, sometimes called "slips," from the ends of the stems. This method is also very economical as you can quickly multiply geraniums using the flowers already growing in your garden.

Planting containers
Perlite
Sphagnum peat moss
Garden shears
Rooting hormone
Potting soil
Liquid fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare a mixture of perlite and sphagnum peat moss. Moisten the mixture and place into planting containers that are 3 to 4 inches deep.
- 2
  Clip off a 3- to 4-inch piece of the stem and remove the lower leaves. Dip the ends of the clippings into rooting hormone to encourage growth.
- 3
  Plant geranium clippings 1 inch deep into the growing mixture and water lightly. After the initial watering, add moisture only if the mixture begins to look dry.
- 4
  Place the pots in a north- or east-facing windowsill in an area that maintains a steady temperature of 72 to 75 degrees. This is important because temperatures that fluctuate or are too cool will prevent the clippings from taking root.
- 5
  Check after several days to see if the new cuttings have taken root. You can do this by pulling gently on the stems. If you are met with resistance, the roots have started to grow. This usually takes 10 days to three weeks.
- 6
  Transplant the new geraniums to larger containers. Plant in good-quality potting soil and water well.
- 7
  Feed once per month with a liquid fertilizer mixed at half the strength recommended on the package.
- 8
  Move the new plantings to a sunny location in your garden once they are well-established and all danger of frost has passed for your area.

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