Myrtle, an evergreen shrub or small tree, is cherished for its glossy, dark green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and purplish-black berries. Native to the Mediterranean, it adds beauty to many gardens. Propagating myrtle from cuttings is an accessible way to expand your plant collection, creating new plants genetically identical to the parent and preserving desirable traits.
Choosing the Right Time and Materials
The ideal time to take myrtle cuttings is from late spring to early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer, and semi-hardwood cuttings in early autumn from non-flowering shoots. Gather sharp, clean pruning shears to ensure precise cuts and prevent disease transmission.
A suitable propagation medium is essential for successful rooting. Options include clean sand, a mix of one part sand and one part peat, a well-draining potting mix, or a 50/50 mixture of perlite and potting mix, or even 100% perlite for aeration and moisture retention. Rooting hormone, while not always necessary, can enhance success and speed up root development. You will also need pots or trays with drainage holes, and a clear plastic cover or dome to create a humid environment.
Propagating Myrtle from Cuttings
Taking Cuttings
Select healthy, non-flowering stems from the parent myrtle plant. Stems that are new growth but have started to firm up, often called semi-hardwood cuttings, are ideal. Aim for cuttings 4 to 6 inches long, each with at least three to four leaf nodes. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node, as roots are most likely to emerge there. Taking multiple cuttings increases the overall chance of success.
Preparing Cuttings
After taking cuttings, carefully remove all leaves from the bottom 1 to 2 inches of the stem. This exposes the nodes, areas capable of producing new growth and roots. Some gardeners lightly scrape the bark at the base to further expose these tissues and promote rooting. If using rooting hormone, dip the cut end into the powder or gel, ensuring the bottom inch or two is thoroughly coated.
Planting Cuttings
Before planting, pre-moisten your chosen propagation medium until it is damp but not waterlogged. Use a pencil or chopstick to create a small hole for each cutting, avoiding rubbing off the rooting hormone. Insert cuttings about 1 to 2 inches deep, or until the lowest remaining leaves are just above the surface. Gently firm the medium around the base to ensure good contact. If planting multiple cuttings, space them a few inches apart for proper air circulation and growth.
Initial Care for Cuttings
Immediately after planting, provide a humid environment. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag, propagation dome, or inverted clear storage box to trap moisture and create a greenhouse effect. Place cuttings in bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can be too intense. Maintain consistent soil moisture, watering lightly to prevent drying out, but avoid overwatering to prevent rot. Ideal rooting temperatures range from 70 to 75°F (21-24°C). Rooting typically occurs within three to eight weeks. Gently tug on a cutting after several weeks; resistance indicates root formation.
Caring for Your New Myrtle Plants
Once myrtle cuttings have rooted and show new growth, they are ready for the next stage. After six weeks, when roots are established, gradually acclimate young plants to lower humidity by progressively removing the plastic cover over several days to prevent shock. When the root system is sufficiently developed, transplant them into larger individual pots or their final outdoor location.
For outdoor planting, choose a site with full sun and well-drained soil, ensuring the planting hole is twice the width of the root ball and of similar depth. Space plants 4-5 feet apart for optimal growth. Myrtle prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil and consistent watering, especially when young. Established plants show some drought tolerance, but regular watering during dry periods promotes better flowering.