Don’t Buy It, Grow It! Easy Propagation of Lamium Flexuosum (aka ‘The Plant That Never Dies’)
Lamium flexuosum, also known as ‘The Plant That Never Dies’ (for its incredible hardiness) or ‘Shellflower’ (for its delicate, shell-like blooms), is a low-maintenance, ground-hugging beauty that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. But don’t just buy a few plants and call it a day! With Lamium, you can easily propagate new plants from cuttings, divisions, and even seeds, ensuring a plethora of these vibrant blooms for your garden and perhaps, your friends, too!
Cuttings: The Fastest Route to New Plants
For a quick, effortless way to multiply your Lamium, taking stem cuttings is the way to go. Here’s the process:
- Choose Your Cuttings: In spring or early summer, select healthy stems from a well-established Lamium plant. Choose stems that are at least 4 inches long and have a few sets of leaves.
- Prep the Cuttings: With a sharp knife or pruning shears, make a clean cut just below a node (the point where a leaf emerges from the stem). Remove any leaves below the soil line.
- Dip and Plant: Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone for increased success. Plant the cuttings in pots filled with a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the nodes are below the soil line.
- Nurture Your Cuttings: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Place the pots in a bright, indirect light location. Within a few weeks, you should start seeing new growth, indicating successful rooting.
Division: Another Easy Method
Lamium is happy to be divided, letting you generate multiple plants from a single one. Here’s how to do it:
- Timing is Key: The best time for division is during spring or early fall.
- Dig Up Carefully: Gently dig up the Lamium plant using a shovel or garden fork.
- Divide and Conquer: Use your hands or a sharp knife to separate the main plant into smaller divisions, each with healthy roots and at least a few shoots.
- Replant and Care: Plant the divisions in their new beds or containers, making sure their root systems are properly covered. Water them well and keep the soil consistently moist for the first couple of weeks.
Seeds: For the Patient Gardener
While not the most common propagation method, Lamium seeds are readily available and can provide numerous new plants. Here’s how:
- Choose Your Seeds: Opt for fresh, high-quality Lamium seeds for the best germination rates.
- Sow Indoors: Start the seeds indoors in a seed tray filled with a seed-starting mix. Cover them lightly with the mix, water gently, and place the tray in a bright, warm location.
- Patience is Key: Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month. Maintain a consistently moist soil environment.
- Transplant Outdoors: Once seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them outdoors when the weather is warm and frost risk is minimal.
Tips for Success:
- Fertilize Regularly: Lamium is a light feeder, so fertilize it monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Remove Spent Blooms: To encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding, promptly deadhead spent flowers.
- Prevent Pests: Lamium is generally pest-free, but keep an eye out for slugs and snails, which can be a problem in cool, humid weather.
Embrace the Lamium Magic!
With its easy-to-care-for nature and beautiful blooms, Lamium flexuosum makes a delightful addition to any garden. By using the simple techniques discussed above, you can propagate this versatile plant and enjoy its beauty in various areas of your garden, and even share it with fellow plant enthusiasts! So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and let Lamium spread its captivating charm throughout your outdoor haven.