How to Propagate a Poinsettia Plant
Hi Judy,
I want to know if I can take cuttings from my poinsettia plant and start new plants. I don’t know how to do that, and I don’t want to hurt my poinsettia. I am attaching pictures. Thank you – Debra
Hi Debra,
Picture by André Karwath
Poinsettia plants are propagated by stem cuttings, but it is not always successful. Here is how it’s recommended that you do it.
Take cuttings from healthy new stems. The old stems that already flowered should not be used. Cut the old stems back and allow new growth to develop. Keep the “mother” plant warm, moist, and in a bright location to produce good cuttings. Once the new stems have grown about 4-5″, you can start to take cuttings. The cuttings should be about 3 to 4 inches long and have 2 to 3 mature leaves.
Dip the stems in a small amount of rooting hormone before planting. I recommend using 4″ pots. Use a pencil to make holes in good moist potting soil. Carefully insert the hormone-treated base of each cutting into the holes. Place the pots into plastic bags to increase the humidity and help the soil stay moist. Place the cuttings in a bright location, but no direct sun. Bright light is important.
It usually takes about a month for roots to develop. The plant won’t “flower” this year but hopefully will next year. Wear gloves when you take cutting in case you might be sensitive to the sap in poinsettia stems.