How to Propagate Iresine herbstii from Stem Cuttings in 2 Easy Ways
Some links in this post may be affiliate links
Iresine herbstii (Bloodleaf Plant) propagation is easily done at the beginning of the growing season from stem cuttings which you can be rooted in water or in soil.
Bloodleaf Plant also called Beef Steak Plant or Red Iresine is a popular, colorful, easy-care plant which requires some sun exposure to bring out its bright colors.
Red Iresine performs best in very bright light with 4-6 hours of direct sunlight, warm and humid conditions and consistently moist, rich, well-drained soils coupled with fortnightly feeding during the growing season. Learn more on how to grow and care for Iresine herbstii (Bloodleaf Plant).
If you are looking to multiply your Iresine herbstii for more plants or to share with your friends and family, keep reading for our detailed account on the 2 propagation methods for this plant.
1. Iresine herbstii propagation from stem cuttings in water
Take 4-6 inches long stem cuttings from a healthy Iresine herbstii Plant. Ensure each cutting has at least one set of leaves and 2-3 leaf nodes as this is where new growth will come from.
Strip off the lower leaves and dip the lower cut end in a rooting hormone to hasten rooting.
Place the cuttings in a jar of plain water or in a propagation station. Place in a warm, well-lit spot away from direct sunlight. Change the water every 5-7 days.
When a good amount of roots have formed on the cuttings, transfer the cuttings into individual pots in moist, quality, rooting soil.
Position the set up in a warm, well-lit place away from direct sunlight to prevent scorching.
Maintain the soil moist until new growth has emerged and substantial growth has been observed.
Transfer the new Bloodleaf Plant into a pot 1 size larger than the current one while ensuring that the soil is well-drained. At this point you can begin the normal routine care.
2. Iresine herbstii propagation from stem cuttings in soil
Take 4-6 inches long stem cuttings from a healthy Iresine herbstii Plant. Ensure each cutting has at least one set of leaves and 2-3 leaf nodes as this is where new growth will come from.
Dip the cut end of the cuttings in a rooting hormone to hasten rooting.
Select a small pot about 6-8 inches wide. Ensure that the pot has a drainage hole to prevent the soil from getting soggy soil as it can lead to rotting.
Fill the rooting container with quality, rooting soil. Moisten the soil lightly.
With a pencil or similar object make a hole in the moist rooting mix. Insert the cutting in the previously made hole. Lightly cover the base of the cutting with the rooting mix.
Cover the set up with polythene to create a greenhouse effect to increase warmth and humidity to enhance rooting.
Position the set up in a warm, well-lit spot and maintain the soil moist until new growth emerges and substantial growth has been observed.
Rooting should take place in about 4-6 weeks; new growth indicates that rooting has taken place.
Acclimatize the new plant to normal growing conditions by opening the polythene cover a little bit everyday over a period of two weeks. During this period, keep the soil barely moist.
Transfer the rooted cuttings into individual pots, 1 size larger than the current one and begin routine care. For a fuller plant, transfer several cuttings into one pot.
You liked it? Share on social media.
Related Content
Amazon Associates Disclosure
Homeplantsguide.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.