The mammoth leaf is quite an impressive leafy perennial, so the idea of propagating this plant may arise. This is not easy, but definitely doable. Sowing is not always successful and takes a lot of time.
How to propagate a mammoth leaf?
In order to successfully propagate a mammoth leaf, division in spring, when the leaves are visible, is more recommended than sowing. Separate shoots with leaf base, grow in moist soil and plant out after about 3-4 weeks or overwinter frost-free.
The sowing
In autumn, small fruits form on the seed heads of the mammoth leaf, in which the sensitive seeds ripen. If they have been freed from the pulp, they should be sown immediately. Covered thinly with substrate and kept evenly moist, the seeds should germinate after a few days.
The optimal germination temperature is 15 °C to 20 °C. Be sure to maintain constant humidity; the best way to achieve this is to cover the growing container with glass or transparent film. Daily ventilation prevents the formation of mold. Older, already dry seeds germinate poorly or not at all.
Where do I get the seeds?
If you don't have a mammoth leaf yet and therefore don't have your own seeds, then you might want to ask a gardening friend or in the neighborhood. You should definitely sow these freshly. Alternatively, you can also find seeds online.
Share the Mammoth Leaf
Division is much more promising than sowing. This should be done in spring when the first leaves are visible. Separate a shoot with a clearly visible leaf base, or perhaps several if it is a very large plant. Do not dig up the old plant completely; it is better to only expose part of the root ball.
The cuttings are best grown in a pot that you fill with pond soil or moist garden soil. Like the mother plant, the young plants will grow quite quickly. They could be planted out after three to four weeks. However, in a harsh area, frost-free wintering is recommended.
The most important things in brief:
- Sowing possible, but not always successful
- only use fresh seeds
- Division relatively easy to carry out
- ideal time to share: at the beginning of budding in spring
- Separate shoots with leaf base
- Preparing the sprouts in the pot is recommended
- may not plant out until next spring
Tip
Propagation by division is much more successful and easier than sowing.
