Propagating Pittosporum tobira

Semi-ripe stem · MerlinYes plant guide

Method at a glance

Prepare a firm, non-flowering shoot. Insert the bare base into free-draining propagation mix. Pot on after roots have formed and hold the plug together. General method illustration; the plant-specific notes below take priority.

Before you start

Choose current-season growth with a firm base and a flexible tip. Strip lower leaves and remove buds or flowers.

Gather a labelled pot with drainage, clean scissors and fresh propagation mix. Unwrap the cutting on arrival and check that the stem is firm and sound.

Plant-specific notes

Pick shoots with a firm base and retain a few upper leaves. Keep them in sheltered light until a root plug forms.

Setting up the cutting

Insert a bare node into a pot of airy propagation mix. Water to settle and drain. Keep sheltered in bright filtered light. A ventilated humidity cover helps thin-leaved cuttings. Remove condensation and avoid standing water.

When to pot on

Check for roots before reducing humidity. Once the plug holds together, pot on and increase light and ventilation in stages.

If something goes wrong

Wilting can come from excess heat, dehydration or a rotting base. Move into diffuse light, check the stem and adjust humidity or drainage before adding water. Discard mouldy or collapsed material.

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