Yes, you can successfully grow Thryallis from cuttings, specifically using tender softwood cuttings during the summer months. This method allows gardeners to propagate new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Propagating Thryallis from Cuttings
Propagating Thryallis (also known as Galphimia glauca) from cuttings is a straightforward and effective method for expanding your plant collection.
Best Practices for Cuttings:
- Timing is Key: Collect cuttings in the summer when the plant is actively growing and new stems are developing.
- Type of Cutting: Use "tender softwood cuttings." These are new, flexible shoots that are not yet woody but have started to firm up. They should snap cleanly when bent, rather than just bending or being too rigid.
- Preparation:
- Select healthy, disease-free stems.
- Cut sections about 4-6 inches long, just below a leaf node.
- Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting to prevent rot and expose nodes for root development.
- Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone (optional but recommended for better success rates).
- Planting Medium: Plant cuttings in a well-draining, sterile potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss and perlite or sand.
- Environment:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide high humidity, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or dome, ensuring the leaves don't touch the plastic.
- Place in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the tender cuttings.
With proper care, roots typically form within a few weeks, and the cuttings will show new growth, indicating successful establishment.
Alternative Propagation Method: Seeds
Beyond cuttings, Thryallis can also be propagated from seeds. This method offers an alternative for those who prefer to start plants from scratch.
- Seed Collection: Thryallis seeds should be sown while they are still green, directly after collection from the plant.
- Growth Rate: Seedlings grow relatively quickly. You can expect them to reach a height of one foot and begin to bloom when they are approximately six months old.
Thryallis Hardiness and Growth
Thryallis is a resilient plant, particularly known for its ability to recover from cold temperatures.
- Cold Tolerance: While plants may be killed back to the ground when temperatures drop to about 25 degrees Fahrenheit, they are quick to re-grow in the spring.
- Hardiness Zones: This vigorous re-growth is especially common in USDA hardiness Zones 8b and 9, making it a reliable perennial in these regions despite winter setbacks.
Summary of Propagation Methods
To help you decide the best approach for your gardening needs, here's a quick comparison:
| Method | Type of Material | Best Time to Propagate | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuttings | Tender Softwood | Summer | True to parent plant; faster bloom than seed | Requires specific cutting type and humidity |
| Seeds | Green Seeds | After Collection | Cost-effective for many plants | Plants may vary slightly; takes longer to bloom initially |
