How to Propagate Malabar spinach?

(Basella alba)

Malabar spinach, also known as Indian spinach, Creeping spinach, Buffalo spinach

Malabar spinach's propagation is best done during the warm months of spring and summer. Herbaceous cuttings are ideal for propagation, though the process can be challenging. Successful propagation is noted by the appearance of new growth, and it's important to keep the soil moist during this time. For best results, provide ample sunlight and well-draining soil.

What Is the Best Time To Propagate Malabar Spinach?

Propagation Type

Use The Tubers

Propagation Season

Spring

The optimal time to propagate malabar spinach is in Spring, leveraging tubers. This period ensures warm temperatures, increasing the likelihood of successful root development. Adequate light during Spring supports vigorous growth post-propagation. Considering malabar spinach's tropical origin, replication of warm and bright conditions is crucial for effective propagation.

Identify plants and unlock the secrets of propagation

Whether it’s cuttings, division, or the perfect timing, we offer expert tips to help you care for every plant!

Download the App for Free

What Tools Are Used in Malabar Spinach Propagation?

Sharp Pruning Shears

These are essential for taking cuttings from malabar spinach with clean cuts to avoid disease entry points. The non-serrated blades ensure minimal damage to the parent plant and the cuttings, increasing the chances of successful rooting.

Rooting Hormone Powder

This helps stimulate root development on malabar spinach cuttings. The application of rooting hormone to the base of the cutting can significantly improve the rate of root growth, leading to more robust plants that are better able to absorb water and nutrients.

Clear Plastic Bags

They are used to create a mini-greenhouse effect around the malabar spinach cuttings. This maintains high humidity levels around the cuttings, which is crucial for preventing the delicate cuttings from drying out before they can establish roots.

Quality Potting Mix

This provides a sterile and nutrient-rich medium for malabar spinach cuttings to establish roots. The mix should promote good drainage while retaining enough moisture to encourage root growth without becoming waterlogged, which can lead to rot.

Plant Pots with Drainage Holes

These are important for potting on the malabar spinach once the cuttings have rooted. Adequate drainage is vital for preventing water stagnation and its associated problems, such as root rot.

Watering Can with a Fine Rose

This is used to water the malabar spinach cuttings gently, providing moisture without disturbing the developing roots or washing away the soil. A gentle and controlled flow of water helps in maintaining adequate moisture levels during the crucial rooting phase.

Labels and Markers

Tracking the progress of each malabar spinach cutting is essential. Labels help in documenting details like the date of propagation and other observations, ensuring proper tracking of growth stages and contributing to more successful propagation outcomes.

How to Propagate Malabar Spinach?

Propagation Type

Use The Tubers

Difficulty Level

Easy

Seed selection

Source healthy, mature seeds from a reputable supplier or save them from a previous malabar spinach plant after the fruit have matured and turned a deep purple.

Seed preparation

Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat and speed up germination.

Potting mix preparation

Prepare a well-draining potting mix combined with organic compost to nurture the seedlings as they develop.

Sowing seeds

Plant the pre-soaked seeds 1/4 inch deep into the potting mix, spacing them about an inch apart to ensure adequate growth space.

Moisture and warmth

Water the seeds gently to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place the pot in a warm area with indirect light to promote germination.

Germination watch

Monitor the soil moisture daily, and expect seedlings to emerge within two to three weeks.

Seedling care

Once seedlings develop true leaves, thin out the weaker plants, leaving the strongest to continue growing.

Transplanting readiness

Prepare to transplant the malabar spinach seedlings once they are several inches tall and have developed a robust root system.

Transplanting

Gently remove the seedlings from the pot, being careful not to damage the roots. Transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden if the risk of frost has passed.

Post-transplant care

Water the transplanted malabar spinach sufficiently to help them settle into their new location. Provide support structures like trellises if growing vertically, as malabar spinach vines can grow quite tall.

Ongoing maintenance

Continue to water as needed to keep the soil moist and provide a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

Pruning and training

Regularly prune the malabar spinach to encourage branching and fuller growth. Train the vines onto the support structures as they grow.

How to Care for Your Newly Propagated Malabar Spinach?

After propagation, malabar spinach requires ample sunlight and consistent moisture without being waterlogged. Support their climbing habit with trellises or stakes. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites and treat accordingly. Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and harvest leaves as needed, allowing the plant to continue producing new foliage.

Discover your plant's ideal water intake

Use our calculator to find out how much water your plants need for optimal health.

Download the App for Free

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Propagating Malabar Spinach

Overwatering

Overwatering can lead to root rot in malabar spinach, particularly after cuttings are planted. Soggy soils can suffocate new roots and prevent proper growth.

Deep planting

Planting malabar spinach cuttings too deeply can hinder their ability to sprout new leaves and can cause rot at the base where moisture accumulates.

Ignoring light requirements

Failing to provide malabar spinach with moderate to full sunlight exposure can result in leggy plants and weak stems, as malabar spinach thrives with good light intensity.

Overcrowding

Planting malabar spinach cuttings too close together can limit air circulation and light penetration, leading to poor growth and increased disease susceptibility.

Tips For Propagating Malabar Spinach

Stem cutting selection

Choose healthy and vigorous stems from malabar spinach for cuttings. These should have several leaf nodes to increase the chances of successful rooting.

Soil preparation

Prepare a well-draining soil mix for malabar spinach cuttings to promote healthy root development and prevent water logging.

Use of rooting hormones

Applying rooting hormone to the cut end of malabar spinach cuttings can encourage quicker root formation and a higher success rate in propagation.

Proper planting depth

Insert cuttings of malabar spinach shallowly, with just a few lower nodes buried. This ensures better access to air and reduces rot risks.