What is Pentas?
Pentas is a genus of flowering plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It contains about twenty species and are native to tropical Africa, Arabia, and Madagascar. They are popular garden plants for their bright star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, rose, lavender, purple and white. The foliage is most often green with some varieties having distinctive bronze or red leaf markings. These are low maintenance perennials that can be used as bedding plants in sunny borders or grown in containers on patios or decks where there’s enough sunlight.
Propagating Pentas
The best way to propagate pentas is by stem cuttings because it’s very easy to do and you get new plants quickly without waiting for the seedlings to emerge from the soil. Here’s how:
1) Select healthy stems with several sets of leaves at the top (at least 4). Cut off 6-inch pieces just below a node (where the leaf meets the stem) using clean pruning shears or scissors sterilized with rubbing alcohol before each cut if desired; make sure no flower buds remain on your cutting – they will rot if kept moist after being cut!
2) Dip your cutting into a rooting hormone powder like Rootone F (or honey) before planting them in pots filled with sterile potting mix formulated specifically for cacti & succulents; water lightly but keep away from direct sunlight until roots have developed which may take anywhere from 3 weeks up to 8 weeks depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity levels during propagation time – too much heat/humidity can cause mold growth while not enough will slow down root development significantly!
3) Once rooted & established pentas can then be transplanted into larger containers outdoors where they should be planted at least 6 inches apart so they have room for growth – remember these guys like plenty of sun & regular watering so make sure their location provides both!
4) Lastly give your new babies occasional liquid fertilizer throughout growing season – something designed specifically for blooming annuals works great here! This will help promote more vibrant flowers all summer long 🙂
Conclusion
Propagating pentas couldn’t be easier – simply follow these steps above and you’ll start seeing results within a few weeks of taking those first cuts. If done correctly you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by an abundance of beautiful colors coming out all over your landscape!
