Rapid Sampaguita Plant Propagation

Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) takes time to grow. Different methods were experimented to determine which is method will give the best results.

1. Direct Planting of cuttings

This is the most common practice of farmers. Cuttings are  directly planted into the soil with 3-5 cuttings per hill. However, this method is not reliable. Sampaguita tend to have buds on the first week of planting that is quite misleading as it ensembles a vigorous growth. A week after, it starts to wilt: a sign of fungal attack. Those which survives are characterized by slow growth. Thus, the plant is easily overgrown by weeds.

Success rate: 0%-20%

2. Cutting

Cutting is the most common method of propagation. Matured stem are cut at 6-in long. The cuttings are planted in the soil-rice hull mixture in the seedling bag. 

Success rate: 50-80%

Freshly cut sampaguita stem

Leaves are removed. Two-three cuttings are placed every seedling bag. 

3. Marcotting

Marcotting is not a new technique but not widely practiced. Two cuts or girdle on the bark of the plant is made at least an inch using sharp cutter. The cutter is moved in circular motion around the stem. Since the bark is very closely attached, it is scraped. Wrap soil-rice hull mixture using a plastic.The plant starts to root on the first month and harvestable after 3 months. 

Success rate: 50-80%

Scraped bark of the plant.

Marcotting paraphernalia.

Marcotted sampaguita plants. 

Marcotted plants with roots already visible. 

Each of the method has its downside and advantage. At the end of the day, it is best to know that each method produces flowers we all ♥.