The Spruce / Claire Cohen
One of the great joys of gardening ispropagating new plants.
At that point, you might transplant the rooted cutting into a pot or directly into the garden.
Many plants, such as coleus,spider plant, andpothos, will readily root in water.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
It’s generally best to root your cuttings in some pop in of potting medium if possible.
April through June is usually the best time to take cuttings from woody plants.
Moreover, using a rooting hormone is essential when attempting to root cuttings from woody plants.
The Spruce
What is rooting hormone?
For many plants, an ordinary commercial potting mix based on peat moss works just fine.
Never use ordinary garden soil to root your cuttings.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
Do a little bit of research on any plant you want to propagate from stem cuttings.
It’s easy to learn what experts recommend as the best growing medium to use for propagation.
This angled cut will maximize the area available for roots to develop.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
Roots will sprout from this node, as well as from the cut end of the stem.
Woody plants can be especially temperamental, so taking six or more cuttings is a good idea.
Usually, you’re free to simply snap off the leaves.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
verify to retain at least three to four leaves on the stem cutting.
If you are using gel hormone, simply dip the end of the cutting into the hormone.
Poke a hole in the medium with a pencil.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
Inspect the cuttings every two weeks, looking for new leaf growth and root development.
If flower buds or blooms develop, pinch them off.
New leaves will assist with root growth, but flowers divert energy away from root development.
The Spruce / Claire Cohen
Some plant species will require special treatment so you can root their cuttings.
Always research the particular needs of the plant species you are trying to propagate.
Once you feel resistance when slightly tugging on the cutting, it means the roots are sufficiently developed.
At this point, you’re free to transfer the cutting to a new pot withfresh potting soil.
Remove leaves that turn brown or black as the stems are rooting.
Gradually, the plant will become accustomed to the outdoor environment.
