While many plants are a breeze to propagate from cuttings, Eucalyptus is a whole different ball game. To be honest, even some of the most seasoned gardeners struggle with this one! That’s exactly why most people stick to growing them from seeds.
Propagating via Cuttings
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try propagating Eucalyptus from cuttings, you’ve got to get the conditions just right. First off, you can’t just snip off any random branch. For a real shot at success, you need to take your cutting from the main trunk node. These specific sections have the best chance of actually taking root.
Once you’ve got your cutting, it needs the perfect “home” and a little TLC. I recommend a potting mix of seed-starting soil and coconut coir, with a bit of sand tossed in for good measure. This mimics the natural Australian soil where these beauties thrive.
Place your pots in a warm spot with plenty of bright sunlight. You’re aiming for a temperature between 68-77°F (20-25°C). Keep the soil moist but be careful—waterlogging is the fastest way to kill off new roots before they even start.
Caring for Your Eucalyptus Cuttings
If you’re lucky enough to see some roots forming, it’s time to baby those little guys. Once they hit about four inches (10 cm) in height, they’ll likely outgrow their starter pots and need a bigger home.
When it comes to watering, Eucalyptus can be a bit picky about minerals. Try to use low-lime water such as:
- Filtered water
- Rainwater
- Tap water that has sat out for a day
When you move them to their permanent spot, make sure it’s warm, sunny, and protected from harsh winds. Only once they’ve matured and grown a full canopy of leaves can they handle cooler temperatures. Once your plant is established and leafy, don’t be afraid to prune it to your desired shape or height. In fact, a good trim actually encourages the plant to grow even more vigorously!
