How to Start Ivy Geraniums

Overview

Ivy geraniums are a popular plant for hanging baskets or window box planters. They are native to South Africa and grow in more than 75 variations, according to the Iowa State University Extension Service. This plant, which grows on a vine, varies in foliage color, size and bloom color. The best way to propagate the exact type of ivy geranium as the parent plant is through stem cuttings.

Step 1

Wash a 4-inch container with hot soapy water and rinse with 1 part bleach mixed with 9 parts water. This disinfects the container so it is not infected with any plant diseases or pests. Let the container dry thoroughly.

Step 2

Mix together equal parts of peat moss and sand. This creates a well-drained soil mixture. Fill your container with this mixture.

Step 3

Cut 3- to 4-inch pieces of the branch ends off your parent ivy geranium with a sharp knife. Trim off the leaves of the base of the cutting so the stem is bare for 1-1/2 to 2 inches from the bottom.

Step 4

Slide the stem of the cutting into the soil mixture. Leave 1 to 2 inches of the cutting sticking out of the soil and place the cutting in an area with indirect light.

Step 5

Water well; do not let your cutting dry out.

Step 6

Place in full sunlight after the plant forms roots. Keep the soil moist and fertilize with water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks.