Once you get to know the diplomat, you will quickly take him to your heart. Its flowers are simply stunning and its easy-care and undemanding character make it something special in the garden paradise. How can it be propagated?
How to propagate the diptam?
Diptam can be successfully propagated by dividing the rhizomes in spring or late autumn. Alternatively, the seeds of the diptam, which are harvested in September or October, can be used for sowing, with the germination time being around 180 days.
How is the plant divided?
Dividing this perennial is considered to be the most successful. Unlike many other perennials, it is not the roots that are divided, but rather the rhizomes. The best time to do this is either early spring or late fall. Attention: The diplomat is not ready for division until the third year at the earliest. He's not strong enough before that.
Unearth and share
First the plant is dug up along with its roots. The rhizomes are exposed and then divided or severed with a knife or spade. Each section that is later to be planted and develop into a new diptam should have at least 1 and preferably 2 buds.
Plant in a new location
After dividing, the rhizome pieces are planted deeply in another location. The place should be sunny to partially shaded and protected. The soil there needs to be loosened up well and drainage made of pebbles, for example.
Sowing: Harvest seeds yourself
You can harvest the seeds for sowing yourself if you already have a diploma. Wait until the flowering is over and the fruits and seeds appear. When the fruit clusters dry out, the time has come and they can be harvested. This is usually the case with the diplomat between September and October.
Sowing seeds correctly
This should be noted:
- first stratify (these are cold germinators), for example in the refrigerator (not necessary for direct sowing)
- After stratification, sow seeds in nutrient-poor and well-drained soil
- do not or hardly cover with sand (light germination)
- ideal germination temperature: 8 to 12 °C
- Average germination time: 180 days
The seeds should not be stored for long. It is best if you take action immediately after harvesting. Remember: When sowing, it takes 3 to 5 years for the diptam to produce flowers for the first time.
Tip
Protect the young plants from snail damage in the first few weeks!