Should we use rooting powder when we stick our crossandra cuttings? It is taking 3-4 weeks before we get any kind of roots forming out of the stem.

Hi Streek -

We use 3000 ppm IBA for rooting hormone on the Crossandra we root at the Ranch. We feel that the rooting hormone enhances root uniformitiy and speeds the time to rooting by a few days.

Crossandra are sensitive to overmisting in propagation and we feel that overmisting is the largest contributing factor to slow rooting. Overmisting can also create problems with bacterial leaf spotting and soft rotting. Crossandra will perform better on an "as needed" misting schedule rather than a set one.

As they are a true tropical plant, they will also be happier in the propagation environment if the temperatures are warmer. We keep day temperatures at 75F and night temperatures at 68F. Any visible buds in propagation should also be removed to encourage vegetative growth.

Hope this helps. Here's a link to our FASTFACTS Production Guidlines for more detailed production information: Crossandra