To propagate a gentian tree, you need patience above all. Propagation does not always work, even if all the conditions for cultivation are right. But don't be discouraged. With these tips it will definitely work at some point.
How can you successfully propagate a gentian bush?
To propagate a gentian bush, cut off 10-15 cm long head shoots in summer, remove the lower leaves, put them in potting soil, cover them with foil and use rooting aid. After new shoots have formed and a height of 20 cm has been reached, remove the film and start the topiary.
How to propagate gentian bushes
- Cut cuttings
- Stick in potting soil
- Cover with foil
- Remove the film after new shoots have formed
- Transplanting
- Start topiary
Cut cuttings
The best time to propagate a gentian tree is the summer months of June and July.
Cut several 10 to 15 centimeter long head shoots with a sharp knife and remove the lower leaves.
Be sure to protect your hands with gloves. Even contact with parts of the poisonous gentian bush can cause skin problems.
Use root aid
Place the shoots in pots that you have previously filled with potting soil.
Cover the cuttings with foil and place the pots in a light place that is not too warm.
Since the shoots of the gentian tree do not always root well, use a rooting aid (€8.00 on Amazon). You can get these in well-stocked specialist shops or a garden center.
Wait until the cutting sprouts
Now all you have to do is be patient until the cutting takes root. A sure sign of this is when new small side shoots form.
Leave the cuttings under the foil until they have reached a height of 20 centimeters. Then the foil is removed.
In warm weather, take the small pots outside and place them in the sun. But don't forget to keep the soil moderately moist.
Shaping a new gentian tree
Care for the cuttings as you would a full-grown gentian tree.
As soon as the new gentian bush is around 30 centimeters high, place it in a new pot with potting soil. Now you can start with the first careful pruning.
Never cut too much off at once so the plant will bloom earlier.
Tips & Tricks
As a hobby gardener, you rarely get the high-stem form of the gentian bush that is often available in stores. This includes constant pruning, which results in the gentian tree producing few or no flowers.