How to Clone Geraniums
Unlike humans, some plant species can reproduce completely on their own without the need for a mate. One of these plants is the geranium. A single snip of a geranium plant, planted and cared for properly, can produce an offspring that is the genetic clone of the original plant. This clone will grow into a full-sized geranium and can later be cloned again. With one geranium plant, you can have generations of offspring, so long as you take proper care and precautions when dealing with these gentle flowers. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Fill your clear plastic cup about halfway with flower soil or compost. You can purchase this material from most garden centers or nurseries.
-
2
Pour water onto the soil so that it becomes damp. Squeeze the cup a few times to spread the water throughout all of the soil. You want the soil to be dampened through, but not wet or muddy to the touch.
-
-
3
Cut a geranium leaf off of the mother plant by holding the leaf to expose the stem, and then cutting the stem of the leaf near the body of the plant.
-
4
Insert the bottom of the leaf-cutting stem into the moistened soil. You have now planted your clone.
-
5
Water the soil regularly to keep it moistened but not wet. Do not let the soil dry out in between waterings, or the geranium clone will not grow properly.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some garden centers, nurseries and Internet retailers sell cloning kits, which include everything you need to cut and care for a geranium clone. If you are having trouble caring for your plants, consider purchasing one of these kits.
As the geranium grows, you will eventually need to replant it in a larger container so that it can continue to thrive.
If you will be unable to water your geranium clone for a few days, cover the cup with a clear plastic bag. The plastic is thin enough that light and oxygen can still get to the plant, but moisture cannot escape.
Take care when using sharp scissors to avoid injury.
