SWIMGA Propagation Team Update

The propagation team was formed a few years ago to help increase the number of plants for our May plant sale beyond what members brought and what we purchased and potted up on transplant days. We received a big boost when the University of Evansville began allowing us to use one of their state-of-the-art greenhouses from October to May. Much of what we grow is tropical house plants and succulents which need high temperature and humidity. This article is to encourage our members to increase their donations thru propagation of plants they have at home. Some general guidelines: • One large plant is easier to sell than ten little ones. • Variegated and blooming plants sell better than plain green. • Plants with unusual leaf shapes or growth habit are also good. • Miniature plants are hard to find commercially. These are especially good for terrariums. • Unique plants are also good sellers. Plants we need that are easy to grow from cuttings include: Philodendrons, Dracenas, Cuphea, Peperomia, Pothos, Swedish ivy (esp. variegated), Crotons, Lantana, Fuschia, Zebra plant, Wax plant (Hoya sp.) Tahitian bridal veil, Shrimp plant, Nerve plant (fittonia), Polka dot plant, African violets (we need name and pic or in bloom), Purple passion (gynura), Purple sweet potato vine (cuttings or tubers), green/white wandering jew, many succulents, incl. hanging basket types like String of pearls and rat-tail cactus. From divisions: Peace lily, bromeliads, many ferns, incl. Birds nest fern and many outdoor ferns, umbrella plant (Cyperus & papyrus), Seeds: Look at the seed catalogs that will be arriving soon. Try growing something new. Look at days to bloom and grow some that will be blooming by May 6. To look good they need very good light. LED lights have become very affordable and use less energy that traditional fluorescent, though these also do a good job of indoor plant growing. I have grow lights on shelving in my office and in my furnace room at home. Some members have heated garages which are also good spots to grow under lights