The Skimmia doesn't just look good. Since it is evergreen, it is also a popular winter bloomer. In addition, it is very easy to propagate. For example via cuttings.
The Japanese Skimmia (Skimmia japonica) is a real eye-catcher in the garden with its evergreen leaves and red flower buds. So it's no wonder that many people just can't get enough of it. If you feel the same way, then simply propagate your plant. The Skimmia can, for example, be propagated very well by cuttings. However, you have to bring a little patience with you, because the cuttings of the evergreen plant like to take their time with rooting. But otherwise the propagation is very easy.
The correct way to propagate Skimmia from cuttings
❶ Select and prepare shoots:
Cut the cuttings for propagating Skimmia in the months of May to August. Choose strong, non-woody shoots with a length of between 15 and 20 centimeters. Leave four or six leaves at the top of the shoot and use sharp scissors to snip off the other leaves and any flowers or buds. You can plant the cuttings immediately or leave them for a few weeks.
❷ Place cuttings in nutrient-poor substrate:
Now fill the flower pots with substrate that is rather poor in nutrients. A mixture of peat and sand, for example, is very suitable. Alternatively, you can also use ordinary garden soil. Slightly moisten the substrate in the pots and insert the lower half of the cuttings.
❸ Keep cuttings warm and moist:
Move the pots with the cuttings to a warm place. To create a favorable humid climate, you can put a hood on the cuttings. This can be cling film or bags. To reduce the risk of mold growth, you should perforate the hoods with a few holes about the size of a knitting needle. Additionally, give the cuttings a regular dose of fresh air by removing the hoods for an hour.
❹ Overwinter cuttings:
To be on the safe side, you should wait until spring before releasing the cuttings outdoorswaiting. In the first year, the roots are usually not sufficiently developed. Overwinter the cuttings in a bright, warm spot indoors. Also in winter, make sure that the substrate does not dry out completely.
❺ Set Skimmia outdoors:
Choose a partially shaded spot if you plant the cuttings in the garden in spring. Direct sunlight significantly inhibits the he althy growth of plants. The soil at the site should also be rich in humus, well drained and not too moist. These requirements make the Skimmia an ideal companion for conifers such as firs and pines, which also provide the necessary shade. You can find out how to properly care for the Skimmia here.