Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is a sacred plant in Hinduism and is widely used for its medicinal properties. It’s easy to grow and propagate, making it a popular choice among gardeners. Propagating tulsi plant can be done through cuttings, seeds, or layering. In this article, we will discuss the right way to propagate tulsi plant through cuttings.
Choose a healthy parent plant that is disease-free and has no signs of pests or insect damage. Look for a mature plant with strong stems and leaves.
Take a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears and cut a stem from the parent plant. The stem should be about 4 to 6 inches long with at least two sets of leaves.
Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only two sets of leaves at the top. This will help the cutting focus its energy on growing roots instead of supporting leaves.
Dip the bottom end of the stem into water or rooting hormone. Rooting hormone helps stimulate root growth and increases the chances of successful propagation.
Plant the stem in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Make sure to bury the stem deep enough so that only the top two sets of leaves are visible above the soil level.
Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a warm, bright location but away from direct sunlight. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or a clear plastic cup to create a mini greenhouse effect that will keep the cutting moist and promote growth. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and avoid overwatering as it can cause the cutting to rot.
After a few weeks, the cutting will start to develop roots and new growth. Once the plant has established itself, transplant it into a bigger pot with well-draining soil.
It takes about 2-3 weeks for tulsi cuttings to root, depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment.
The best time to propagate tulsi plant is in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Yes, you can propagate tulsi from seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
Water your propagated tulsi plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
You can check if your propagated tulsi plant has rooted by gently tugging on it. If you feel resistance, it means that the roots have started to grow and anchor the plant in place.
Propagating tulsi plant through cuttings is an easy and rewarding process that allows you to grow multiple plants from one parent plant. By following these simple steps, you can successfully propagate your own tulsi plants and enjoy their many health benefits. Happy gardening!