Cuttings of Verbena Bonariensis?

Greetings from sunny Shoreham-by-Sea.

Is this possible, please, and if so, when?

Thank you

Neil C

 

never thought about taking cuttings but I'd say August would be a good time. I'd take young basal shoots and try rooting 'em in water first,
Jenny

 

Thanks, Jenny, will try that.

 

I doubt that you could take cuttings. But there really isn't any need. You can either collect the seed and sow it yourself, or dig up some of the numerous seedlings that it produces naturally.

 

Point taken about seeds/seedlings, Peter, but just out of curiosity I tried cuttings and, presto, two have produced roots. I wonder now how long I should keep them in the water.

 

Well done Ennnceee .

Whilst I don't really know, I suspect that you don't have to leave them that long in water. Once they have committed themselves to growing roots they can't really change their minds. Perhaps pot one up and leave one a bit longer. Its worth regularly changing the water, as plants need dissolved oxygen round their roots to grow. That's why everyone talks about using well drained compost, as there should be tiny pockets of air round the roots.

 

Thanks, Peter. Yes, have been changing the water regularly; will do as you suggest.

Neil

 

Glad they performed for you Neil.
Isn't it great when you start to see those little roots emerging? It's the same with Busy Lizzies - they can't wait to sprout from bits of stem in water. I think quite a few plants with soft stems eg violas - will root in water at this time of year,
Jenny

 

I have grown plenty of Verbena from cuttings in the past, side shoots, basal shoots; they all root readily in gritty compost

 

Yes, it's very satisfying, Jenny; all is well with the world!