Almost all hydrangeas are simple to propagate by taking cuttings for rooting.
Learn how to propagate hydrangeas with three methods.
When Should You Propagate Hydrangeas?
The Spruce / Randi Rhoades
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Add sterile, seed-starting mix to the pot and moisten the soil thoroughly.
If using regular potting soil, mix in coarse sand or vermiculate to help create a lighter soil mixture.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Choose the Best Stem
Select a green, softwood stem that has not flowered or formed buds.
The stem should be at least 6 to 8 inches and not brown and woody.
Use the shears to carefully remove all of the leaves except the top two, avoiding the main stem.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Carefully cut the two remaining leaves in half horizontally (crosswise), not vertically.
Take the time to sanitize your garden clippers with some isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol before you begin working.
This will help prevent the transfer of diseases to your new plant.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Apply Rooting Hormone
Dip the cut end of the stem intorooting hormone powder.
Pack the soil around the cutting.
Place the pot in an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Monitor the soil to see to it it doesn’t dry out.
It should be moist but not soggy.
Transfer the plants to larger containers filled with potting soil.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Stems often rot before they develop roots and water-grown roots do not transplant well to soil.
Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light, and be patient.
Hydrangeas rooted in soil will develop roots within three to four weeks.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Choose a stem for propagation before it develops flower buds.
It is technically a violation of the law to propagate patented hydrangea varieties.
A nursery plant tag with a “TM” or "" should not be propagated without permission.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Plant patents remain in effect for 20 years after they are granted.
