On Thu, 29 Apr 2004 22:20:47 GMT, "Zing" wrote:

I'm going to try and propagate several perennials by the cutting method, but
was wondering if it's worth the effort and what techniques to use.
Everything I have coming up now was planted from 1 gallon nursery container
stock. I'm putting more nursery stock in, but want to stretch my dollars.

PLANTS:
Bee Balm, Leopard Bane, Purple coneflower*, black eyed Susan*, Indian
blanket flower*, tickseed*, old fashioned bleeding heart.

As you have noted, several of these reseed freely. In fact, they
pretty much all do. Paghat's site says Bleeding Heart spreads by both
seeds and rhizome growth. For cheap and easy propagation, I'd just
collect the seeds.

QUESTIONS:
I'm familiar w/ the basics, but was wondering what mediums are best -
standard soil, sterilized starter mix, perilite or just plain water. I want
to avoid damping off (fungus). Rooting hormone? Should I do it before the
buds flower, or during flowering? Will there be enough time to get them
established before the first frosts (late Oct.).

I have little experience in propagating from cuttings. Some things I
just stick in a glass of water and see if they grow roots. Not
familiar with the finer points.

I have collected seed from those marked "*." Can I direct sow now in some
bare spots once the last frost date has passed, or should I wait until Fall?
I did the refrigerator thing and they've been at room temp. for about
3 -4weeks now.

(Look around for specifics on each plant. Not all seeds require
chilling.) You have nothing to lose by sowing some of your seeds now.
Save some for spring if they don't work out.

I am wondering if the seeds are viable since all the plants came from the
same source and am assuming there's not much genetic diversity there, but
maybe they're self pollinating.

Seem to be in my experience. My Rudbeckia has been coming up from seed
for years and years. Coneflower next door the same.

Also, can I divide the above plants w/ a knife right out of the nursery
containers w/ a reasonable chance of success?

Again, check for each plant. I see it is recommended that Bee Balm be
divided and replanted every few years.