The Brunfelsia pauciflora, known as the Yesterday Today and Tomorrow plant, is a captivating shrub admired for its unique floral display. Native to Brazil, this semi-deciduous plant produces fragrant flowers that undergo a remarkable color transformation. Each bloom opens vibrant violet-purple, gradually fading to pale lavender-blue, and finally becoming almost white before withering. This continuous color shift gives the plant its name, as all three stages can be present simultaneously. Gardeners propagate this species to expand their collection or share its beauty, and stem cuttings are a reliable method.
When to Propagate Yesterday Today and Tomorrow Plant
The best time to propagate the Yesterday Today and Tomorrow plant from cuttings is late spring to early summer. This aligns with the plant’s active growth, increasing the chance of successful rooting. Warmer temperatures and increased light during these months aid root development. While possible outside this window, it presents more challenges due to less favorable conditions.
Propagating Yesterday Today and Tomorrow Plant from Cuttings
Gathering Materials
Gathering the right tools and supplies is the first step. You will need sharp, sterilized pruning shears or a knife for clean cuts and to prevent disease. A small, clean pot (3-4 inches in diameter) is suitable for individual cuttings. A well-draining potting mix is essential, ideally a sterile blend like equal parts peat moss and coarse sand or perlite. Rooting hormone (powder or gel) is recommended to encourage root development. A clear plastic bag or humidity dome and a spray bottle are necessary to create a humid environment.
Taking Cuttings
Select healthy plant material. Choose non-flowering, semi-hardwood stems from the current season’s growth that are mature but not yet woody. Stems should be 4 to 6 inches long. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node (the small bump where a leaf or branch emerges). Cutting below a node is preferred because this area contains dormant cells that can develop into roots.
Preparing Cuttings
Prepare cuttings for planting by removing leaves from the lower 2 to 3 inches of the stem. This reduces moisture loss and prevents submerged leaves from rotting. Some gardeners suggest making small, shallow slits through the bark at the base to expose more cambium tissue, though this is optional. Dip the cut end of each stem into rooting hormone, ensuring the bottom 3 to 4 inches are coated, as this aids root growth.
Planting Cuttings
Gently insert the treated end into the moistened, well-draining potting mix. Ensure at least two leaf nodes are buried, as roots typically emerge from these points. Firm the soil gently around the base of each cutting to ensure good contact and eliminate air pockets. If planting multiple cuttings, space them adequately for air circulation and to prevent fungal issues.
Providing Initial Care
Immediate care after planting is important for successful rooting. Water newly planted cuttings lightly to settle the potting mix and provide initial moisture, avoiding overwatering. To create a humid environment, cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or humidity dome, using stakes if needed to prevent contact with leaves. This dome effect mimics tropical conditions, reducing water loss. Place covered cuttings in bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight which can scorch stems. Maintaining consistent soil moisture and high humidity is important during this rooting period.
Caring for Your New Yesterday Today and Tomorrow Plants
New growth, typically within four to six weeks, indicates successful rooting. This signifies the plant is establishing its root system and drawing nutrients and water independently. Gradually acclimate young plants to less humid conditions by progressively opening the plastic bag or removing the humidity dome over several days. This helps plants adjust to normal humidity without shock. Continue to provide consistent moisture, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged, and place them in bright, indirect light. After approximately four months, when young plants have developed a robust root system, they can be transplanted into larger pots or their permanent garden location.
Common Propagation Challenges
Several issues can arise during propagation. Cuttings may fail to root due to insufficient humidity or inconsistent moisture, leading to desiccation. Overwatering is another problem, causing cuttings to rot before roots form, especially if the potting mix is not well-draining. Wilting can occur from too little water or excessive direct sunlight, stressing the plant material. Ensuring proper drainage, consistent moisture without saturation, and using sterile tools can help mitigate these challenges.