Waking Up the Stripes: Your Guide to Propagating Convolvulus Lineatus
Convolvulus lineatus, also known as the Silverbush or Dwarf Morning Glory, is a delight for any gardener seeking low-maintenance beauty. With its silvery leaves and delicate white-to-pink striped flowers, this semi-evergreen groundcover adds a touch of whimsy and charm to rockeries, borders, and containers. If you’re already smitten (and who wouldn’t be?), you’ll be thrilled to know that propagating Convolvulus lineatus is easier than you might think!
This guide will walk you through two foolproof methods:
When to sow:
- Outdoors: Spring, after the last frost.
- Indoors: Late winter/early spring, 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Steps:
- Prepare the seedbed: Choose a well-drained location with full sun to partial shade. If sowing directly outdoors, loosen the soil and amend it with compost for better drainage.
- Sow the seeds: Scatter the seeds thinly over the prepared soil, gently pressing them into the surface. Convolvulus seeds need light to germinate, so don’t bury them too deep.
- Water consistently: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Use a gentle watering method to avoid dislodging the seeds.
- Thinning (optional): Once the seedlings emerge and have a few sets of true leaves, you can thin them to give them space to grow. Space them about 12 inches apart.
2. Propagation from Cuttings:
When to take cuttings: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Steps:
- Take basal cuttings: Using clean, sharp pruning shears, take cuttings about 4-6 inches long from the base of the plant. These basal cuttings tend to root more easily.
- Prepare the cuttings: Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few at the top. This reduces moisture loss and encourages root development.
- Optional: Root hormone: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful rooting (this is not strictly necessary).
- Plant the cuttings: Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix. Make a small hole in the center and carefully insert the cutting. Gently firm the soil around it.
- Humidity is key: Cover the pot with a plastic bag or use a propagator to create a humid environment. This will prevent the cutting from drying out.
- Place in indirect light: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the cutting before it develops roots.
- Be patient!: It may take several weeks for the cutting to root. You can test for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If you feel resistance, it means roots are forming.
Caring for your new Convolvulus lineatus:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize occasionally: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune for shape: Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth.
- Enjoy the blooms! With proper care, your propagated Convolvulus lineatus will reward you with a beautiful display of flowers year after year.
Propagating Convolvulus lineatus is a gratifying way to expand your garden or share this charming plant with friends. With a bit of patience and care, you’ll soon have a flourishing colony of these delightful groundcovers adding their unique charm to your outdoor spaces.