Honey Tips & Tricks – Propagation
Beechworth Honey founder Jodie Goldsworthy is an avid gardener, and loves nothing more than spending time in her beautiful garden at home. One of Jodie's top honey tips, that might not be very widely know, is the use of honey while propagating.
Propagation is the term used when you create new plants from the cutting of a larger and healthy plant. Some of Jodie’s favourite bee friendly plants to propagate are lavender, rosemary and verbena.
Now let’s talk about honey, and how it fits in with gardening. Honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties and provides an energy source that can help promote root growth and keep roots growing strong. The honey also provides a protective layer, which helps the new plant fight off any nasty fungal issues.
Instructions
- Pour honey into a small vessel. The amount will vary depending on how many plants you will be propagating.
- Snip your chosen plant at around a 45 degree angle. You will want the cutting to be at least 15cm.
- Dip the cut end into the honey, making sure it covers at least 5mm from the bottom.
- Poke a finger into the potting mix and insert the cutting, pressing down firmly.
- Ensure you keep the potting mix moist and roots should strike in approximately two weeks.
Notes
It is imperative that you sterilise your gardening snips to prevent any contamination.
The best time to propagate is late spring to early summer