Mastering Geranium Cuttings: Hormone Science and Practical Techniques

Geraniums with a single main stalk can be propagated and encouraged to branch using plant hormone knowledge. Two key hormones: auxins (promote rooting) and cytokinins (promote branching).

Taking Cuttings: Use a razor blade to make a diagonal cut (45°) just above a node (the bump on the stem where hormones concentrate). This maximizes cytokinin exposure for rooting. Cut 3.5 inches from the top, at the nearest node above that point. Dip in rooting hormone powder (synthetic cytokinins) and place on a heat mat under bright light. Roots may take a month.

Encouraging Branching: The same cut signals the parent plant to produce auxins, which stimulate side shoots. Pinching the tip achieves the same effect. Autumn is the toughest time for this due to short days and cool temps, but with a heat mat and patience, it works.