| Can azalea clippings be rooted? Please explain for a novice person who attempts to start rooting clippings as a hobby. What chemical is used to start roots? |
| It is possible to root azaleas from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or semi-softwood, taken in mid-summer. Here are some general guidelines: Use a well-drained, porous medium for starting your cuttings. Select 5" or 6" long stems that bend easily, and remove leaves along the bottom inch of the stem. Have your soil moist but not wet. With a pencil make a small hole in the soil to receive the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and shake off excess powder. Place the cutting in the hole, then cover the entire container with a plastic bag. Put 2 or 3 holes in the bag for ventilation. Use a stick to elevate the plastic bag so that it does not touch cuttings. I like to place my cuttings under a shrub or some place where they will get a little sun, but not too much. Do not bother the cuttings for 6 to 8 weeks. After that time they should have rooted and can be planted in the ground or in containers. |
