How to Plant Stephanotis

Stephanotis is known as the "bridal veil vine" because the fragrant blooms are often used in bridal bouquets. It has also been called Madagascar Jasmine. Stephanotis has leathery, thick leaves and can grow to be 15-18 feet high. Its evergreen vines are generally planted in pots in front of a trellis and produces blooms from spring to fall. It is a fast growing vine that can quickly get out of control.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stephanotis seeds
• Pot
• Potting soil
• Mister
• Water

Planting from Seed

1. Fill the pot with potting soil. A mix that is specifically for seed starting is ideal but any soil can be used. Add some organic compost such as pine bark for drainage or just add a layer of pebbles to the pot before adding the soil.

2. Water the soil well enough to ensure that it is damp several inches down. Allow the soil time to drain thoroughly so that you do not drown the seeds.

3. Gently push the seeds 1/2 inch into the soil. Sprinkle additional potting soil or vermiculite over the seeds to cover.

4. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or any other kind of clear plastic.

5. Place the pot in a location where it will receive light but still be protected from direct sunlight which may burn the plant.

Planting from Cutting

6. Cut a 4-inch-long piece from an adult stephanotis. This can be done with scissors or a sharp knife. Remove all lower leaves from the cutting.

7. Fill a small pot with coarse sand or mild soil that is mixed with organic compost. Water the soil thoroughly and allow time for it to drain.

8. Dip the end of the cutting in a rooting hormone. If desired you can cut a small slit in the tip of the cutting first to allow the hormone to really soak in.

9. Insert the end of the cutting in to the soil far enough so that the cutting stands on its own with out drooping over. Make sure that none of the leaves are touching the soil.

10. Place a clear plastic bag or any other see-through plastic over the pot which will cause a greenhouse type of environment.

Tips & Warnings

• If planting during colder months always keep the stephanotis in a warm environment.
• Placing a dish under the pot that is filled with pebbles and keeping this dish filled with water will ensure proper humidity for the plant.
• Seeds may take much longer to produce a flowering vine than plants started from cuttings. Cuttings should only be taken from healthy plants as any weaknesses in the parent plant will carry on in the new plant.

References

• Soil
• Propagation