Tropicals & Tender Perennials: Questions re rooting in vermiculite, 0 by hcmcdole

hcmcdole wrote:
I know Rob's Violets (The Violet Barn) roots their begonias in vermiculite. I quit using it 20+ years ago because it packs down and I didn't see a lot of benefit in it for what I was doing at the time. It does seem to be in a lot of seed starting mix. I prefer perlite since it provides excellent aeration and drainage and is sterile (no sterilization) for begonia cuttings.

Anyway there are plenty of ways to root begonias including water rooting. I've rooted leaves in sand, potting mix, Oasis, bark, and even gravel but these are just experiments. I've tried the paper towel method too without a lot of success (Rekha has demonstrated Bill Claybaugh's method to the Atlanta Begonia Group which she is also a member) because it dries out too fast for me even in a plastic container and is also a host for mold.

My favorite method is to use an aluminum baking pan with plastic lid, poke holes in the bottom, fill over 1/2 way with perlite, water well, insert cuttings, and cover. Place under lights and check for dryness weekly. If growing outdoors place under a shrub to provide filtered light. Most cuttings will take in a week or two.

Continue to experiment to find out works best for you!