Growing More Brickellia oblongifolia: A Guide to Propagation
Brickellia oblongifolia, also known as the “Brickell Bush” or “Woodland Brickellbush,” is a striking native wildflower with delicate, fragrant foliage and whimsical blooms. Its beauty and drought tolerance make it a fantastic choice for attracting pollinators and adding a touch of wild charm to your garden. But what happens if you want more of this beautiful plant? Thankfully, propagation is relatively straightforward, allowing you to easily expand your Brickellia oblongifolia collection.
Methods of Propagation
Brickellia oblongifolia can be propagated using two primary methods:
1. Seed Propagation:
- Harvesting Seeds: Collect seeds in the autumn after the plant has finished flowering. The seeds are tiny and stored within the dried flower heads.
- Sowing Seeds: Sow the seeds directly into the garden in late spring or early summer after the last frost. Seeds can also be started indoors in trays several weeks before the last frost. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep them moist.
- Germination: Brickellia oblongifolia seeds can take a few weeks to germinate, so be patient. Ensure the soil is kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
2. Propagation from Cuttings:
- Taking Cuttings: Cuttings taken in the spring or early summer are ideal. Select healthy stems with several nodes (the points where leaves grow).
- Preparing Cuttings: Make a clean cut below a node using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Remove lower leaves so that they don’t rot in the soil.
- Rooting Cuttings: Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone for best results. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a moist mixture of potting soil and perlite.
- Maintaining Cuttings: Keep the cuttings moist and shaded from direct sunlight during the rooting process.
Tips for Successful Propagation:
- Choosing the Right Time: Both seed and cutting propagation are successful when done at the optimal time.
- Using a Good Growing Medium: Choose a well-draining potting mix for both seed starting and rooting cuttings.
- Providing Proper Light: Brickellia oblongifolia needs good lighting, but avoid exposing young seedlings or cuttings to direct sunlight.
- Maintaining Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Patience is Key: Brickellia oblongifolia might take some time to germinate or root. Don’t give up too soon.
Benefits of Propagating Brickellia oblongifolia:
- Affordable: Growing Brickellia oblongifolia from seed or cuttings is much more cost-effective than buying new plants.
- Genetic Diversity: Propagating from seed allows you to create plants with slightly different characteristics.
- Increased Garden Size: Expand your garden with a beloved plant, and attract more pollinators.
Sharing Your Success:
Once you have successfully propagated your Brickellia oblongifolia, consider sharing the joy! Share your knowledge with other gardening enthusiasts or gift them a rooted cutting or seedling to enjoy this beautiful native plant.
By following these simple tips and techniques, you can easily grow more Brickellia oblongifolia and enhance your garden with its charming beauty and ecological value. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the natural world and share the joy of gardening.