How to propagate oleander

Use a two-node-set tip or a stem cutting from a middle or lower branch. Oleander cuttings root in a solid medium such as coarse sand or perlite.

Plant coveredNerium oleanderOleander · outdoor seasonal

Choose a viable cutting, division, offset or seed

What plant material to use

Use either an 8–10 inch tip cutting or a 5–8 inch stem cutting from a middle or lower branch, with at least two sets of leaf nodes. Remove all leaves except the top whorl and trim those leaves to about 1 inch.

Follow the method for this plant

How to propagate this plant

  1. Nerium oleander can be propagated by seed, semi-hardwood cuttings or air layering in spring. The detailed home procedure favors coarse sand or perlite over water rooting, but does not claim that water rooting never works.
  2. Take cuttings in late spring while the plant is growing. Apply rooting hormone, place the cutting in well-watered coarse sand or perlite, and keep it warm in bright light out of direct sun. Keep the medium damp but never wet.
  3. Take a two-node-set tip or a middle or lower-branch stem cutting. Keep only the top whorl and trim those leaves, apply rooting hormone, and insert the base into coarse sand or perlite. Keep it damp, warm and in indirect sun while it roots.

Check visible progress before moving the plant

Signs of roots or failure

Roots should start in a couple of weeks under the cited conditions. Leave the cutting in its medium until it has a good set of leaves and then a strong root system. Slower rooting is not by itself proof of failure.

Transfer the plant after roots have formed

Aftercare and hygiene

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