How to Root Poinsettia Cuttings

An old Mr. Digwell cartoon breaks down the basics of taking and rooting poinsettia cuttings.

By the MOTHER EARTH NEWS editors
January/February 1979

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This old British cartoon gives basic advice on caring for and rooting poinsettia cuttings.
ILLUSTRATION: MOTHER EARTH NEWS STAFF
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The Mr. Digwell cartoon — as you may or may not know — was originally created for readers of the London Daily Mirror which explains why its advice is often couched in peculiarly British terms. Despite the occasionally strange language, however, we think you’ll find Mr. D’s gardening tips interesting and useful on this side of the pond, too. This tip is about caring for poinsettias.

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Poinsettia Cuttings

After the poinsettia is done flowering — the flowers in the center of the red leaves — remove the dead heads. Keep the plants just moist.

In April cut back stems to 6-inches. Water well, stand in a light, warm place. Shoots will show soon.

When shoots are, say, 4-inches long take cuttings just below a leaf joint.

Rooting Poinsettia Cuttings

Dip the cuttings straight into water to stop ‘bleeding.’

Then, plant in equal parts peat and sharp sand. Stand pots in warmth. When roots form, pot with compost.

See the Image Gallery for a closer look at the Mr. Digwell cartoon. 

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