How to create an insurance policy for your garden using penstemon cuttings
Penstemons can be vulnerable to frost, but you can multiply your favourite varieties for free. This guide demonstrates Carol Klein's step-by-step method for taking cuttings to ensure your garden remains full of colour next year.
The video covers the practical process of propagating penstemons by selecting healthy shoots and preparing them to root in gritty compost. Because some varieties are susceptible to cold, creating cuttings serves as a vital backup for your garden's blooms.
Beyond propagation, understanding the needs of these plants is key to their success. Penstemons thrive in sunny, sheltered spots with well-drained soil. While some varieties can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C, others may require more care. When planting in containers, using a mix of peat-free John Innes No. 2 with 30% horticultural grit is recommended. For those growing alpine varieties, providing extra protection from winter wet, such as a perspex cover, can be essential.
Source: New plants for FREE | Carol's guide to taking PENSTEMON CUTTINGS
