Growing Pentas from Cuttings - Knowledgebase Question

West Palm Beach, FL
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Question by persy
December 16, 1997
I have repeatedly tried to grow pentas from cuttings. I have used rooting powder and tried to just put the cuttings in soil they don't do anything. I have tried them in water. them seem to live but they do not develop roots. I just can't seem to root them. I'm using regular potting soil that you buy at any gardening store.


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Answer from NGA
December 16, 1997
Photo by plantladylin
It is possible to root pentas from cuttings. Here are some general guidelines: 

1. Use a well-drained, porous medium for starting your cuttings--the potting soil you are using may be too heavy and hold too much water. 
2. Select 5" or 6" cuttings 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. A rooting hormone may be helpful. Place the cutting in the hole, then cover the entire container with a plastic bag. 
3. 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 and also to prevent rain water from collecting and smashing 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. Pentas can also be grown from seed.

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