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I read somewhere that to propagate this plant, I should take some stem cuttings with at least 3 nodes on them, then stick them in a container with perlite and peat moss.
I didn't have any peat moss so I just stuck them in a glass with about an inch of perlite weighted down with some pebbles and filled it with water. Within a couple of hours, they've drooped completely as if they are not getting any water!
What am I doing wrong? I really love this plant and would love to get more pots out of the one I have!
I have a red fittonia I have taken cuttings from successfully. I just cut the tips, maybe 3 nodes, maybe 2 and put them in regular potting soil and kept moist. I do know that thy need a lot of water(if your original plant starts drooping dramatically, give it water...this has happened to me twice, and after watering it perked right up). They also like humidity(I think) and fairly warm temps. It could be that maybe December isn't a good time to take the cuttings because the conditions aren't good in the middle of winter. I took my cutting around mid June, so it was hot and humid...I had them outside while they rooted out of direct sunlight. They all did well...I have recently lost a few of the cuttings, and I think its because I had them close to a window and they got too cold. They are susceptible to cold rot(once again I think so, I'm recalling from memory, which isn't always the most reliable). Also, from memory, I think they don't like temps below 55 degrees, but not sure. Oh, and keep out of direct sunlight because I think they can fade and the leaves can brown with direct sun. Hope this helps a little, I know how you feel, I love this plant too!
I'd be surprised if you could root a fittonia in water. I know a lot of plants are very easy to root that way but I have never had luck with fittonia in water. Here's some info you might like to read on propagating cuttings:
Thanks guys! I had to throw out the ones I took yesterday but I'll try it again in the spring or when my plant needs to be pinched back, whichever comes first...
While I'm here, is it the same for Kalanchoe's? My boss has one that really needs to be trimmed. It's absolutely gorgeous but it's just running amok and it hasn't flowered in a long, long time.
