Propagate hoya

Hoyas have mid-to-dark green foliage and wax-like flowers that range from white to deep pink. Once you have one hoya, you’ll want more and, luckily, they strike readily. You can simply strike some cuttings in water or, if you prefer, plant them directly into the pot or hanging basket where you want to grow them. Just make sure to provide the type of potting mix they like. Follow these steps to propagate hoya.

1. PREPARE the ingredients for your hoya potting mix, 2 parts coir peat, 2 parts 12–18mm orchid bark and 1 part perlite. This blend creates an open, airy mix that holds just enough moisture to keep hoyas happy.

2. MIX the ingredients thoroughly, then fill your container to the brim.

3. PREPARE cuttings that are about 10cm long. Unlike most other cuttings, it’s not necessary to have a node (leaf joint) at the base (where roots normally form), as roots will appear readily along the stem. If you look closely at the stem, you’ll see the little bumps where roots will sprout. You need to have nodes and leaves at the top of the cutting – that’s where the new shoots will form.

4. INSERT three or more cuttings in your pot to create a full display. Water well, then place in a warm, shaded position. Check every week or so (more often in warm conditions) and water if necessary. Roots should form within a couple of months and shoots will soon follow at the top of the cuttings. When this happens, add some slow-release fertiliser to the pot to support steady, healthy growth.

Note: If you want to strike your cuttings in a jar of water, refresh the water weekly. When roots form, plant the cuttings in the blended potting mix described in step 1.

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