Do you want to grow Alstroemeria from cuttings?
Growing alstroemeria from cuttings is not difficult, but it does require a little patience. The process can take up to two years before the plant blooms and produces flowers. This article will guide you on how to do it right!
Follow our simple guide on how to grow alstroemeria from cuttings, and you’ll be able to enjoy these lovely blooms in your own home for a fraction of the cost.
What are Alstroemeria?
Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lilies or lily of the Incas, is a beautiful flowering plant that originates from South America. The flowers come in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, purple, and red.
Alstroemeria is not true lilies (Lilium spp.), but they are members of the Alstroemeriaceae family, including around 50 different species.
These plants are named after their discoverer, Swedish botanist Baron Claus von Alstroemer. Alstroemeria area, also known as golden alstroemeria, is the most popular variety.
Alstroemeria plants are not difficult to grow, but they do require some patience. The process can take up to two years before the plant blooms and produces flowers.
Methods on How to Grow Alstroemeria from Cuttings
You can use two methods to grow alstroemeria from cuttings: stem cuttings or root cuttings.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common method and will produce plants that are true to the parent plant.
On the other hand, Root cuttings will produce plants that may be different in color or appearance from the parent plant. Follow these steps to get started:
1. To take stem cuttings, use a sharp knife or gardening shears to cut a 6-inch (15 cm) piece from the tips of healthy alstroemeria stems. Remove the lower leaves so that only two or three leaves are left at the top of the cutting.
2. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder or gel and then plant it in a pot filled with moistened potting mix.
3. Place the pot in a warm, sunny location and keep the soil moist but not soggy. The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks.
4. Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into a larger pot or into the ground.
5. Water the plant regularly and fertilize it monthly during the growing season.
Stem cuttings should be taken in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are another option for propagating alstroemeria. Use a sharp knife or gardening shears to carefully dig up a small section of the plant’s roots to take root cuttings.
Cut the roots into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces and then plant them in a pot filled with moistened potting mix. Here are the basic steps:
1. Fill a 4-inch (10 cm) pot with moistened potting mix and place it in a bright, indirect light location.
2. Use a sharp knife or gardening shears to carefully dig up a small section of the plant’s roots.
3. Cut the roots into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces.
4. Plant the root cuttings in the pot of moistened potting mix, making sure that at least one growth node is buried beneath the surface of the potting mix.
5. Keep the pot of root cuttings warm and moist until new growth appears, which could take several weeks.
6. Once new growth appears transplant the root cuttings to individual pots filled with potting mix.
When taking root cuttings, it’s important to make sure that each cutting has at least one growth node. A growth node is a small bump on the stem that indicates where a leaf or flower will emerge.
This is where the new roots will grow from, so it’s essential for successful propagation.
Caring for Alstroemeria Plants
Once your alstroemeria plants have bloomed, it is important to deadhead the flowers. Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Simply cut off the stem below the flower head to deadhead alstroemeria flowers. You can also remove the entire flower head if you prefer.
Alstroemeria plants are not particularly fussy when it comes to caring, but they do need some basic requirements in order to thrive. These requirements include:
Full sun: Alstroemeria plants need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to bloom.
Well-draining soil: Alstroemeria plants will not tolerate soggy soil. Be sure to plant them in a well-draining location or amend the soil with sand or grit if necessary.
Regular watering: Alstroemeria plants need to be kept evenly moist, but not soggy. Water them on a regular basis, especially during the hot summer months.
Fertilizer: Alstroemeria plants benefit from monthly fertilizer during the growing season. A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer is perfect for these plants.
With proper care, alstroemeria plants will bloom from late spring all the way through fall. Enjoy their beautiful flowers all season long!
Important Things You Should Know About Alstroemeria
Here are some important things to keep in mind when growing alstroemeria:
- They are native to South America, so they prefer warm climates.
- They can be propagated from seed, but it is easier to grow them from cuttings.
- They will bloom in the summer and fall.
- They like full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
- They need well-drained soil.
- They are relatively drought tolerant once they are established.
- They are not susceptible to many pests or diseases.
- The flowers make great cut flowers and will last for weeks in a vase.
FAQs
What are The Best Conditions for Growing Alstroemeria?
Alstroemeria plants need full sun and well-drained soil in order to thrive. They are also relatively drought tolerant once they are established.
What is The Best Way to Propagate Alstroemeria?
Alstroemeria can be propagated from seed or from cuttings. Cuttings are the easiest method and will produce plants that are identical to the parent plant.
When do Alstroemeria Bloom?
Alstroemeria typically blooms in the summer and fall.
Do I Need to Worry About Pests or Diseases When Growing Alstroemeria?
No, alstroemeria plants are not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, they can be affected by powdery mildew in humid conditions.
Can I Grow Alstroemeria in a Pot?
Yes, alstroemeria can be grown in a pot. Just make sure that the pot has drainage holes and that you use well-drained soil. Water regularly and fertilize monthly during the growing season.
How Long do Alstroemeria Flowers Last?
Alstroemeria flowers are long-lasting and can last for weeks in a vase. Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more blooms.
Conclusion
Alstroemeria is a beautiful, easy-to-grow plant that will thrive in your garden as long as you provide them with the right conditions.
Whether you’re looking for some cut flowers or want a low-maintenance plant for your backyard, alstroemeria is excellent! With proper care and attention, these delicate beauties can bloom for months on end, providing you with an abundance of lovely blooms to enjoy.
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