Bougainvillea, commonly known as paper flowers, are native to South America. This vibrant plant has since spread across the globe, with a prominent presence in tropical climates. The bougainvillea’s resilience and adaptability have led to the development of various hybrids, including American and Thai varieties. In Vietnam, bougainvillea is a popular choice for home gardens due to its year-round blooming and ease of propagation.
Propagating Bougainvillea Cuttings
There are two effective methods to propagate bougainvillea through cuttings:
Method 1:
Select healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings, approximately 15-30 cm in length. Ensure the cuttings are neither too young nor too old. Prepare a rooting hormone solution and soak the cuttings for about 15 minutes. Then, wrap the cut ends with moistened toilet paper, covering the nodes. Place the wrapped cuttings in a closed container to maintain humidity. During hot weather, briefly open the container at noon to allow air circulation and reduce temperature. Keep the paper moist by spraying water as needed. After about a week, when the roots start to develop, transfer the cuttings into pots, leaving the paper intact. The paper will naturally decompose in the soil.
Method 2:
Again, select healthy cuttings and use a sharp knife to cut and remove about 1 cm of the outer layer of the cutting’s base. Wrap the cut end with moistened toilet paper and cover it with black plastic. This method ensures moisture retention even if you forget to water occasionally. Periodically, open the plastic and paper to inspect root development, replacing the paper and adding water as needed. Once the roots have grown to a sufficient length, transfer the cuttings into pots with soil.
This propagation method is also suitable for plants like roses and offers a high success rate.