How To Propagate Bougainvillea From Cuttings: A Foolproof Guide

If there is one plant that screams “tropical paradise,” it’s the Bougainvillea. Those paper-thin, vibrant bracts (what we usually call the flowers) are practically indestructible once established. But buying mature plants can get expensive.

The good news? Bougainvillea is surprisingly eager to root from cuttings if you know the right technique. I’ve propagated dozens of these beauties for my own urban jungle and for friends, and today I’m sharing my foolproof method.

When to Take Cuttings

Timing is everything. You want to take your cuttings when the plant is actively growing but not currently flowering heavily (I know, it’s hard to cut them when they aren’t blooming!).

• Best Time: Spring or early Summer.
• The Wood: Look for “semi-hardwood.” This means the stem isn’t brand new and green (too soft), but it’s not old and barky (too hard). It should be greenish-brown and flexible.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp pruning shears (Clean them with rubbing alcohol first!)
• Rooting hormone powder (Essential for bougainvillea)
• Small pots (4-inch size is perfect)
• Well-draining potting mix (Mix perlite and peat moss 50/50)
• A clear plastic bag (to create a greenhouse)

Step-by-Step Propagation

1. Take the Cutting

Select a healthy branch. Cut a strip about 6-8 inches long. Make the cut at a 45-degree angle just below a “node” (that little bump where leaves grow).

2. Prep the Stem

Remove all the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. You only need 2-3 leaves at the very top to keep photosynthesis going. If the remaining leaves are huge, cut them in half to reduce moisture loss. Tip: Scrape a tiny bit of bark off the bottom inch of the stem. This “wounding” encourages roots to form.

3. Apply Rooting Hormone

Dip the cut end into water, then dip it into your rooting hormone powder. Shake off the excess. Do not skip this! Bougainvillea can be stubborn without it.

4. Plant It

Poke a hole in your soil mix with a pencil (don’t just jam the stem in, or you’ll rub off the hormone). Insert the cutting about 2-3 inches deep and firm the soil around it gently.

5. Create a Mini Greenhouse

Water the pot lightly. Then, place the clear plastic bag over the pot. Use a chopstick or pencil to prop the bag up so it doesn’t touch the leaves. This traps humidity, which is crucial.

6. The Waiting Game

Place the pot in a warm, bright spot but out of direct sunlight. Direct sun will cook your cutting inside the bag.

• Check it every few days. The soil should stay damp but not soggy.
• Roots usually form in 6-10 weeks. You’ll know it’s working when you see new green growth appearing at the top.

Troubleshooting

• Leaves dropping? Totally normal. As long as the stem stays green, don’t panic.
• Stem turning black? It’s rotting. You probably overwatered. Toss it and try again with a fresh cutting.

Once you see robust new growth, remove the bag and slowly acclimate it to more sunlight. By next season, you’ll have a brand new, genetically identical copy of your favorite vine!