MetroVavin at hotmail.com
Wed Sep 6 13:14:22 EST 2000
My Botanica encyclopedia says, for begonias in general:
"Lay the the cut leaf blades flat on damp sand weighing them down with
This web site has specific instructions for tuberous begonias (stem
and this site:
has details on several types of leaf cuttings.
For reference puposes I provide the quotes below:
Propagation is by stem cuttings and by tuber division. Stem cuttings are
made from surplus shoots which arise from the tuber. Stem tips may also be
used. The cuttings are 3 inches long and are cut off just below a node. Sand
may be used as the rooting media.
Keep cuttings out of direct sun and in temperatures between 60 and 65
degrees. Rooting occurs in 5 weeks. Tuber division is the other way to
propagate the plants. Divide the tuber so each division has a bud and use a
fungicide to prevent rot. Allow the pieces to dry several days then place
them one-half inch deep in sand. The new plants develop more rapidly with
bottom heat. Pinch off the first flower buds.
All sorts of leaf cuttings can be used to multiply African violets and
- Cut off an African violet leaf with its stalk. Slide the stalk into the
rooting mix and a new plant will form at the base of the stalk.
- Cut off the far half of an African violet or begonia leaf, stick the cut
end of the detached half in the mix and many new plants will form along the
- Lightly score a leaf across its veins on its underside, then lay it flat
on the rooting mix. Lay a few pebbles on the leaf to keep it pressed against
the mix and a new plant will grow at each cut.
- Cut a single leaf into small triangular pieces, each with a large vein.
Insert the triangles partway into the soil in an upright position and each
will develop new shoots and roots.
- - -
Cuttings need light to be able to nourish new roots and shoots. Bright, but
indirect, light is best.
Cuttings also need moisture and humidity. Keep the soil moist, not sodden,
and cover the container with an inverted glass jar. After shoots appear,
gradually acclimate the plants to the outside world by propping up the jar,
increasing amounts every few days.
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