Cultivation

Osteospermum propagation by cuttings

Osteospermum L.

The primary method of vegetative propagation for Osteospermum, ensuring the preservation of varietal characteristics. The technique is based on using non-flowering shoots, followed by rooting in a well-drained substrate under high humidity conditions.

In the reference 6 varieties crop Osteospermum, where this is mentioned in the description.

For Osteospermum propagation, non-flowering terminal or basal shoots 5–10 cm long are selected, as the presence of flower buds reduces material quality. The optimal period for harvesting cuttings falls in late summer and spring, although the process is possible throughout the year from August to March.

The rooting process requires the use of well-drained substrates based on perlite, vermiculite, or peat at a temperature of 18–20°C and an air humidity of 95–98%. Under these conditions, root formation occurs within 12–14 days, with the full rooting cycle taking up to 4 weeks.

Propagation by cuttings also serves as an agrotechnical practice for shaping a compact canopy, as pinching the tips stimulates the development of lateral shoots. The method is essential for maintaining the purity of varietal series, where seed propagation does not guarantee the transmission of parental traits.

General information about the subject — on the page Cuttings propagation.

Sources8

Varieties of Osteospermum mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.