It is definitely possible to propagate Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) from cuttings. In fact, I find that using cuttings is a much easier and more reliable method compared to growing them from seed.
To propagate Crown of Thorns from cuttings, you will need a few things. First, you will need a good medium for rooting the cuttings. I recommend using a mixture of equal parts peat and sand. This combination provides a well-draining and nutrient-rich environment for the cuttings to root.
Before planting the cuttings, make sure the medium is moistened. This will help the cuttings settle in and encourage root development. You don’t want the medium to be too wet or too dry, so finding the right balance is important.
Next, take several healthy cuttings from the Crown of Thorns plant. Look for stem sections that are about 4 to 5 inches (10-12.5 cm) long. It’s best to take cuttings from the tips of the branches, as these tend to root more easily.
Remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting, as these can rot and hinder root growth. You can also dip the cut ends in rooting hormone to encourage faster rooting, although this is not always necessary.
Once you have prepared the cuttings, make small holes in the moistened medium and insert the cuttings. Make sure the cut ends are in contact with the medium. You can plant multiple cuttings in the same container, but make sure they have enough space to grow without overcrowding each other.
Place the container in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the cuttings. A temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) is ideal for root development.
Keep the medium slightly moist, but not overly wet. Overwatering can cause the cuttings to rot, so it’s important to strike a balance. You can mist the cuttings with water daily to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
After a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming on the cuttings. Once the roots are well-developed, you can transplant the cuttings into individual pots filled with well-draining soil. Gradually acclimate them to more sunlight and normal watering routines.
It’s worth noting that Crown of Thorns can be quite resilient and can tolerate some neglect. However, providing the right conditions and care will increase your chances of success with propagating from cuttings.
Propagating Crown of Thorns from cuttings is a relatively easy and reliable method. By following the steps outlined above and providing the right conditions, you can successfully grow new plants from cuttings and expand your collection of these beautiful and unique plants.
