I have a zebra plant that has lost a stem to a Christmas decoration falling on it! I have it in some water to see if it will root, are there any other suggesstions out there? Help!
Zebra Plant
I went though something similar to this a couple years back. I used a seed starting mix and cut the branch off until it was about 6" long, taking all all of the large leaves off. It took at least 2 months to root for me, but this was my first attempt at rooting anything. Hopefully some of the experts will give some good advice. Hang in there!
--Emily
I have one that gets leggy once in a while. I neglect it pretty much, most of the time too. Once in a while, I will cut the taller stems and just poke a hole in the same pot and shove it in. I have not actually looked to see when it roots, but as long as I remember to water it at least a few times a month (told you I am bad...) it still stays upright and eventually just keeps growing. I do not cater to it in ANY way. No stripping the leaves, special potting mix, etc...
Now, when I do water it a couple times a week for a few weeks, it looks really great. The leaves get bigger and crinklier. Almost like it will flower soon. And then for whatever reason, I forget about it again. I have had mine for about 3 years now and I am sure if I move it to a bigger pot and water it like I am supposed it, it will be back up to it's fluffy self in no time.
Enough rambling... just stick it in the soil, keep it damp/moist and it will do just fine! These are very easy to keep going. OH - dont get rid of the original, it will sprout again form where it broke off!
I actually got mine to bloom last summer, but I also babied it with nice fertilizer and misting the leaves. Speaking of leaves, mine seems to drop one or two when it dries out. My plant is about 3 years old and three 2-foot tall branches. How big do these get?
Mine had it's head lopped off too. But it died before I could try and root it. But not one to give up on things, especially plants here in FL. I left the stump in the ground and it's starting to grow, be it ever so slowly. I have read that they can get up to 4'. We will see. I have mine in the yard so I will be growing all year. I hope. hehehe
Hap
Ana, a few of us in the Central Fla area are going to Lucas Nursery in January. Want to go? (Please don't tell them you're a plant neglector, or they'll kick us out!)
:D
Mary
Mary - that sounds like a trip through Wonderland. I LOVE Lucas!!! Last time I went I had no intentions of buying anything, I went for/with my mom. $300 later....... well, you know how the story ends... It would be a perfect time to see what is cold hardy in our area. I will keep an eye glued to the forums for date and time!
I put the broken stem in the soil, so we will see! Thank you so much for the advice! Happy Holidays!
Keep watch of it. As I remember, the leaves dried up but eventually new leaves came out. So don't be so hasty pulling it up.
Merry Christmas, All
Hap