How To Propagate Mimosa Pudica

By  Carolyn Barton

Things Needed

  • Mimosa pudica

  • Scissors

  • Seed starting mix

  • Plastic bag

  • Pot

  • Rooting hormone

Tip

The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings that are removed in the morning tend to do best.

Warning

Be careful not to let the soil dry out when rooting a cutting. New roots need moisture to develop, and a lack of water will kill the cutting.

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The Mimosa pudica is an evergreen shrub native to Brazil. It is often referred to as a sensitive plant or sleeping grass. It has fern-like leaves that are sensitive to touch. The Mimosa pudica will droop and close when touched but will regain its normal appearance within minutes. It grows well in moist soil and medium sunlight. The plant is easy to propagate from cuttings.

Step 1

Choose a healthy, well-established plant to take a cutting from. Cut a section of a branch that contains at least one leaf node. Cut the stem at an angle.

Step 2

Place the cutting in a container of water. Leave it there while you prepare the pot.

Step 3

Fill a pot to an inch below the top with a high-quality seed starting mix, which can be found at any garden supply store.

Step 4

Dip the cutting into a powdered or liquid rooting hormone. Poke a hole in the seed mixture and place the cutting in deep enough to allow it to stand on its own. Fill the hole with soil and pat it down around the cutting.

Step 5

Place the pot into a container of water and leave it there until the top of the soil feels moist to the touch. Remove the pot from the water and give it time to drain.

Step 6

Place the pot inside a clear plastic bag and tie it closed. A glass or plastic container will also work well if it will fit over the pot. Place the plant in a sunny window where it will not receive direct sunlight.

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