How to Prune & Propagate Patchouli

Strong smelling patchouli, or Pogostemon cablin, is a member of the large mint family and is sometimes included in fragrance products. It's native to Southeast Asia and prefers warm climates. However, you can grow patchouli as a houseplant, if your spouse likes the smell. Pruning can help its appearance and will contribute to bushiness. Like many mint family plants, sprigs of this plant root easily in moist potting soil.

Clippers or scissors
Rooting hormone
Potting soil
Small pots

Instructions

- 1
  Pinch back patchouli flowers with your fingers to maintain a high level of essential oil in the leaves. Perform this task throughout the year when the plant begins to form flowers.
- 2
  Cut your patchouli plant to within 1 inch of the soil level several times each year to encourage new growth and bushiness.
- 3
  Make cuttings for new plants between April and September. Cut pieces 5 to 6 inches long, making sure to include four to five leaf nodes. Strip leaves from the lower part of each cutting.
- 4
  Fill small pots with potting soil and water until the water runs from the drainage holes. Plan to plant one cutting in each pot. Then poke a hole into the moist soil with a pencil, making sure it is deep enough to accommodate approximately 2 inches of the lower stem.
- 5
  Dip cut stems into rooting hormone. Carefully insert one cutting into a pot you prepared and fill in around the stem with potting soil.
- 6
  Water cuttings every day to keep the soil moist. Do not expose cuttings to direct sunlight until after they begin to show signs of new growth.

Mexican Mint Marigold Propagation

What Are Flowers of Sulfur Used for?

Growing Herbs