You can definitely grow Choisya ternata from cuttings! In fact, it is one of the best ways to propagate this plant and ensure that its desirable traits are preserved.
To start, you will need to gather some healthy and mature stems from your existing Choisya ternata plant. Look for stems that are not too woody but also not too soft and green. Aim for stems that are about 4-6 inches long.
Next, prepare your cuttings by removing any leaves from the bottom half of the stem. This will help prevent moisture loss and encourage root growth. You can simply pinch off the leaves or use a clean pair of scissors or pruners.
Once your cuttings are ready, it’s time to prepare the rooting medium. You can use a mixture of perlite and peat moss, or a well-draining potting mix. Fill a small container or tray with the rooting medium, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Dip the bottom end of each cutting into a rooting hormone powder. This will help stimulate root development and increase the chances of success. Make sure to tap off any excess powder before inserting the cutting into the rooting medium.
Gently push the cuttings about an inch into the rooting medium, making sure they are secure and upright. You can fit multiple cuttings in the same container, just make sure they are not overcrowded.
Place the container in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. You can cover it with a clear plastic bag or use a propagator to create a mini greenhouse effect and retain moisture.
Mist the cuttings regularly to keep the humidity high, but be careful not to overwater. You want to keep the rooting medium moist but not waterlogged.
After a few weeks, you should start to see new growth and roots forming. This is a good sign that your cuttings are successfully rooting. Once the roots are well-established, which may take several months, you can transplant the cuttings into individual pots or directly into your garden.
It’s important to note that not all cuttings may successfully root, so it’s a good idea to take multiple cuttings to increase your chances of success. Additionally, be patient and give the cuttings time to establish themselves before expecting significant growth.
I have personally propagated Choisya ternata from cuttings and have found it to be a rewarding and successful method. It’s a great way to expand your Choisya collection or share this lovely plant with friends and family. Good luck with your propagation journey!