How to Propagate Creeping Jenny Plant the Right Way

If you’re looking for a ground-cover plant that can add some color and texture to your garden or landscape, then creeping jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is an excellent option. This low-growing plant is known for its bright green, round leaves that form a dense mat over the soil. But if you want to expand your creeping jenny population without having to purchase more plants, then propagation is the way to go. In this article, we’ll discuss the different methods you can use to propagate creeping jenny and provide some tips and tricks for success.

Propagation by Stem Cuttings

One of the easiest and most common ways to propagate creeping jenny is by stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from a healthy mother plant and rooting it in moist soil or water until it develops roots and can be planted in its own pot or in the ground.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a healthy mother plant with several long stems.
2. Cut off a stem that is at least 4 inches long and has several leaves attached.
3. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only one or two leaves at the top.
4. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder (optional).
5. Plant the stem in moist soil or place it in a jar filled with water.
6. Keep the soil or water consistently moist and place the cutting in a bright, but indirect light location.
7. Wait for roots to develop before transplanting into its own pot or in your garden.

Propagation by Division

Another propagation method for creeping jenny is division, which involves separating an established plant into several smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Dig up an established creeping jenny plant from your garden bed.
2. Shake off the excess soil from the roots and remove any dead or damaged parts.
3. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has several healthy roots and shoots.
4. Replant each section in its own pot or in your garden bed, making sure to water them well.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Propagation success depends on several factors, including the health of the mother plant, the time of year, and the environment in which you’re propagating. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a healthy mother plant with no signs of disease or pest infestation.
• Take cuttings or divide plants in the spring or early summer when plants are actively growing.
• Use a good quality potting soil, and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Provide bright but indirect sunlight to your cuttings or divided sections.
• Consider using rooting hormone powder to encourage root development.
• Be patient! It may take several weeks or even months for your cuttings or divisions to develop roots and begin to grow.

FAQ

Can creeping jenny be propagated from seeds?

Yes, creeping jenny can be grown from seeds, but it’s not the most reliable method of propagation. Seeds can take a long time to germinate, and they often produce plants that are not true to the parent plant.

How fast does creeping jenny spread?

Creeping jenny is known for its vigorous growth habits and can spread quickly in optimal growing conditions. However, it is not invasive and can be easily contained with regular pruning.

Can creeping jenny be grown in containers?

Yes, creeping jenny can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its spreading nature. Make sure to choose a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist.

In conclusion, propagating creeping jenny is an easy and rewarding way to expand your garden or landscape without having to purchase more plants. Whether you choose to use stem cuttings or division, following these tips and tricks will help ensure success.