Mock orange, Philadelphus, is an elegant, classic flowering shrub. Its long been been a garden favourite for its pure white blooms, which are deliciously scented and reminiscent of orange blossom. They appear in late spring and summer against a smart backdrop of dark green, often arching foliage.
Mock orange is sometimes considered to be a one-hit wonder, as it fades into insignificance once the flowers have gone over. But, if you have room, its worth including in the garden as its flowers are so abundant and their scent so intoxicating, especially early in the morning and in the evening. The single-flowered varieties also attract bees and butterflies.
Mock oranges look good at the back of a mixed border but also do well in a large container, near a seating area or doorway where you can make the most of the fragrant flowers. Some compact varieties are available for smaller gardens, and plants grow well in pots.
Despite their delicate appearance, mock oranges are surprisingly tough, coping well in coastal and exposed areas.
Mock orange shrubs, also known by their scientific name Philadelphus, are valued for their beautifully fragrant white flowers and attractive foliage. If you want to expand your garden or share these lovely plants with friends, propagating from cuttings is a simple and effective method. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the steps for propagating mock orange shrubs from cuttings.
When to Take Mock Orange Cuttings
Timing is crucial when collecting cuttings from mock orange. Early to mid-summer is ideal when new growth is pliable but firm. Very soft new shoots are often too delicate for cuttings. Look for healthy stems around 4-6 inches long to take as cuttings. Taking cuttings when plants are actively growing gives them the best chance to root successfully.
Gather Propagation Supplies
Before snipping any cuttings, gather the supplies you’ll need:
- Clean, sharp pruners or gardening shears
- Rooting hormone powder or gel
- Small pots, potting soil, perlite or vermiculite
- Clear plastic bags, plant labels
Having your tools and materials assembled makes the process smooth and efficient Be sure to sanitize pruners before and after use
Take Mock Orange Cuttings
With clean, sharp pruners, make a smooth cut just below a leaf node. The cutting should be 4-6 inches long. Carefully remove the lower leaves, leaving just two or three leaves at the top. This helps reduce moisture loss and chances of rotting.
Take several cuttings, as not all may root. Gently dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder/gel. This boosts root development. Tap off any excess powder before inserting into soil.
Prepare the Potting Mix
Fill pots with a lightweight, well-draining potting mix. Amend with perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage An equal blend of potting soil, perlite/vermiculite, and peat or coconut coir works well Moisten the mix before planting cuttings.
Plant and Label the Cuttings
Using a pencil, poke a 2-inch deep hole in the potting mix. Insert the cutting, gently firming the soil around it. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Label each pot with the plant name and date. Tracking dates helps monitor progress. Place pots in a bright spot out of direct sun.
Provide Warmth and Humidity
Root formation requires consistent warmth and high humidity. Create a mini greenhouse environment by loosely covering pots with clear plastic bags. Leave the tops slightly open for air circulation.
Keep pots around 70-80°F if possible. Gently mist inside the bags to boost humidity levels. Once new growth emerges, remove the bags.
Water and Maintain Cuttings
Check soil moisture frequently and water when the top inch is dry. Avoid overwatering, which can cause rotting. Also watch for signs of pests or diseases.
Gently tug on cuttings after several weeks to check for root development. When well-rooted, gradually acclimate plants to normal humidity levels before transplanting.
Transplant Rooted Cuttings
After 6-8 weeks, cuttings should be well-rooted and ready to transplant. Carefully remove from pots and loosen any circling roots. Plant in garden beds amended with compost in full sun to part shade. Water new plants frequently until established. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.
With the right timing and care when taking cuttings, propagating mock orange shrubs is very rewarding. You’ll soon have lovely, fragrant blooms from plants you propagated yourself!
Tips for Successful Mock Orange Propagation
Follow these tips to ensure success when propagating mock orange from cuttings:
- Take cuttings in early to mid-summer when plants are actively growing
- Use sharp, clean pruners to prevent disease transmission
- Select healthy, non-flowering stems around 4-6 inches long
- Dip cut ends in rooting hormone to spur root growth
- Plant in a sterile, well-draining soilless mix
- Maintain high humidity and 70-80°F temperature
- Water frequently but avoid oversaturating soil
- Check often for root development before transplanting
- Gradually acclimate rooted cuttings before planting in garden
Troubleshooting Common Mock Orange Propagation Problems
While propagating mock orange from cuttings is generally straightforward, you may encounter some common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
Cuttings failing to root – Ensure the rooting zone stays consistently moist. Dip ends in rooting hormone. Use a heating mat for warmth.
Leaves turning yellow – This often signals overwatering. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings.
Stems rotting – Prevent rot by providing air circulation and not overwatering. Use sterile pots/tools.
Fungus on cuttings – Use a very well-draining soilless mix. Water carefully and allow to partially dry before rewetting.
Slow root development – Try taking cuttings a bit later in summer. Use a rooting hormone and provide bottom heat.
Leggy growth – Acclimate plants gradually before transplanting. Ensure proper sunlight and avoid overfertilizing.
By diagnosing issues early and making adjustments, you can still achieve success propagating mock orange shrubs from cuttings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mock Orange Propagation
Here are answers to some common questions about propagating mock orange shrubs from cuttings:
What is the best time of year to take cuttings?
Early to mid-summer is ideal, when new growth is pliable but firm and plants are actively growing.
Should I use rooting hormone on the cuttings?
Yes, dipping the cut ends in rooting hormone can promote faster root development. Just use it sparingly.
How long does it take mock orange cuttings to root?
Typically 6-8 weeks. Check for root growth after 3-4 weeks.
What temperature is best for rooting cuttings?
Aim for consistent warmth around 70-80°F. Fluctuating temperatures can slow rooting.
When can I transplant my rooted mock orange cuttings?
Once they have a well-established root system, acclimate for a few days before planting in the garden.
How do I care for newly propagated mock orange plants?
Gradually expose them to less humidity. Water frequently but avoid saturation. Fertilize lightly. Monitor for pests/disease.
Enjoy an Abundance of Fragrant Blooms
With proper timing and care, propagating mock orange shrubs from cuttings is a very achievable DIY gardening project. You’ll be rewarded with an abundance of sweetly fragrant blossoms and attractive foliage. Learning this important propagation skill also allows you to easily multiply other shrubs and perennials in your garden.
How to plant mock orange
Plant mock orange in spring or autumn, when the soil is warm and moist. Dig a generous hole, adding a spadeful of well-rotted compost and a sprinkling of mycorrhizal fungi. Back fill the hole, firm the soil and water in well. Mulch with organic matter such as garden compost or well rotted manure to help retain moisture.
Where to grow mock orange
Mock orange grows best in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. It looks good at the back of a mixed border.