Oleander - Propagate from offshoots

Oleander is easy to propagate using cuttings

Select and cut suitable cuttings

Basically, all plant parts of the oleander can be rooted, from the delicate head cuttings to the already lignified shoot. However, if you want to be on the safe side, it is best to choose the tips of young shoots, which you can sever from the mother plant with a sharp and clean knife. Be careful not to squeeze the interface. Ideally, you should also keep the cut at a slight angle, as this will make it easier for the plant to absorb water. Finally, remove all leaves except for the top pair of leaves. If this is also very large, you can cut the individual leaves in half.

Root the oleander offshoots in a glass of water

Since oleander cuttings need a lot of water to root, it makes sense to put the cuttings in a glass of water. This measure is not absolutely necessary - you can also put the shoots in potting soil - but it promises a higher success rate. Change the water daily, as the escaping sap prevents rooting. The glass with the cuttings should be in a warm and bright (but not full sun!) Location, for example on a window sill. The roots form within about four weeks.

Plant rooted cuttings

As soon as the fine roots are about one to two centimeters long, you can first plant the young plants in potting soil. Before doing this, however, dip them in a growth hormone powder to make them easier to grow on. Water the delicate plants regularly and vigorously, and ensure that there is high humidity. To do this, put a disposable glass or a cut-off PET bottle over the cutting. Do not forget to ventilate it daily.

Caring for young oleanders properly

Now let the young oleander develop vigorously. Several more weeks can pass until this has formed several new shoots and has grown vigorously. As soon as the plant is strong enough, it can be repotted in normal potting soil. Make sure there is plenty of water and sufficient light, and when the weather permits, you can best place the young plant in a protected location outdoors. Make sure not to expose them to direct sunlight right away - otherwise burns will quickly occur. You do not need to fertilize the freshly planted oleander yet. Hibernate the cutting in a cool but frost-free place and as light as possible. Water it only enough so that the root ball does not dry out.In early spring, slowly accustom the young plant to a sheltered place outdoors and also start fertilizing. With a little luck, it will bloom this season.