I need some help with my Plumeria cuttings. I'm worried that it is stem rot. What can I do to keep them alive?

Question

I have been growing plumeria cuttings for about 3 months now, and they have begun to grow some leaf sprouts, and one already has full leaves. I thought they were doing ok, but I noticed that the tips of the sprouts, and a few full sprouts have turned black. I squeezed the cuttings gently and noticed that they were slightly softer than they have been, and I'm worried that it may be stem rot. I can't tell if it is or not, I don't know if I am over watering or under watering them. Does anyone have any answers or advice on what this is, and know what I can do to keep my plumerias alive? I got them while on vacation in Maui, and I will be so sad if they don't make it :( Thanks.

Answer 1

The problem with the instructions on the cutting package is that it says to put the cutting into moist soil. Unfortunately, this almost always results in root rot and the plants will die (sorry about that). The same thing happened to me.

A couple years ago, a Chinese woman across the street from me gave me some of her cuttings and said to put them in a jar or glass of water until the roots sprout and start to fill up the bottom of the glass/jar. Then transplant them into a pot full of moist potting soil. That worked great. I recently transplanted the cuttings into my yard and the plants are doing fine.