China Doll Plant Propagation

China doll plant (Radermachera sinica) is a popular and beautiful houseplant. However, this delicate-looking plant frequently requires regular pruning to keep it from becoming scraggly. Although it can be somewhat difficult, these pruned off cuttings can be used for starting additional China doll plants.

Propagating China Doll Plant

China doll cuttings are not always easy to propagate, as this is a finicky plant. Nonetheless, China doll plant starting is possible given the right conditions. When propagating China doll plant, use only the green stem cuttings, not the woody ones. These cuttings can easily be taken from the ends of the plant's stems while pruning. Avoid using any long cuttings, sticking to those that are 3 to 6 inches (8-15 cm.) in length instead. Insert cuttings for China doll plant propagation into small pots filled with damp potting soil mix or compost. Place a clear plastic bag over top of the pots to help retain moisture levels, as this plant requires a lot of humidity in order to put out roots. Alternatively, when propagating a China doll plant, you can cut the bottoms of 2-liter bottles and place them over the cuttings as well. Move the cuttings to a bright location with indirect sunlight for about three to four weeks, making sure the soil remains moist during this period.

China Doll Plant Starting Care

China doll plants require bright light and moist conditions. When China doll plant starting, heated sunrooms and greenhouses make suitable locations for the cuttings. Once the cuttings are putting out roots, they can be transplanted to another container and care should be given just as with the mother plant. Keep the soil moist, occasionally allowing it to dry some to avoid any potential problems with fungus. Increase watering as new foliage develops, decreasing once the China doll plant goes dormant. With a little patience, China doll plant propagation is not only possible but well worth the additional effort.