How to clone plants from cuttings

Cloning plants through cuttings is a simple and effective way to propagate many plant species. This method involves taking a small section of a parent plant and encouraging it to develop roots and grow into a new, independent plant.


Step 1: Choose the Right Season

  • Deciduous Plants: Take hardwood cuttings during late winter (August–September) when the plant is dormant.
  • Evergreens: Softwood cuttings are best in late spring (October–November) or early summer (December).
  • Herbaceous Plants: Take cuttings during active growth in spring or summer (October–February).

Step 2: Select and Prepare the Cutting

  1. Choose Healthy Parent Material: Select a non-flowering stem that is free of pests or disease.
  2. Cutting Length: Use sharp, sterilized scissors or pruners to take a cutting approximately 10–15 cm long.
  3. Node and Leaves:
    • Ensure the cutting has at least 2–3 nodes (where leaves or buds emerge).
    • Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting. If the remaining leaves are large, cut them in half to reduce water loss.

Step 3: Prepare for Rooting

  1. Use Rooting Hormone (Optional):
    • Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder or gel to stimulate root growth and protect against fungal infections.
  2. Planting Medium:
    • Fill a small pot or tray with a well-draining propagation mix (e.g., 50% coarse sand and 50% coconut coir or perlite).
    • Water the medium lightly to make it moist but not soggy.

Step 4: Plant the Cutting

  1. Insert the Cutting:
    • Make a hole in the medium with a pencil or stick.
    • Insert the cutting so that at least one node is buried in the medium.
    • Firmly press the medium around the cutting to ensure good contact.
  2. Spacing:
    • Keep cuttings about 5 cm apart if planting multiple in one tray.

Step 5: Create a Humid Environment

  1. Mini Greenhouse Effect:
    • Cover the pot or tray with a clear plastic bag or a plastic bottle cut in half to maintain humidity.
    • Ensure the plastic does not touch the cutting by using small sticks or supports.
  2. Light and Temperature:
    • Place in a warm, bright spot with indirect sunlight.
    • Maintain temperatures between 18–24°C, avoiding temperature extremes.

Step 6: Monitor and Maintain

  1. Watering: Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  2. Ventilation: Remove the cover for a few hours daily to prevent fungal growth.
  3. Check for Roots: After 3–6 weeks, gently tug the cutting to feel for resistance, indicating root development.

Step 7: Transplant the Cutting

  1. Once roots are 2–5 cm long, transplant the cutting into a pot with nutrient-rich soil.
  2. Gradually acclimatize the plant to outdoor conditions before planting it in its final location.

Tips for Success

  • Choose Appropriate Plants: Common plants for cuttings include lavender, rosemary, geraniums, succulents, and fruiting plants like figs or grapes.
  • Hygiene: Always use sterilized tools and clean pots to prevent diseases.
  • Moisture Control: Use a spray bottle to mist cuttings instead of overwatering.
  • Patience: Some species take longer to root than others; be patient and check regularly.
  • Label: If propagating multiple plants, label them to avoid confusion.

Winter plant propagation from cuttings

June 30, 2015
Late winter (August–September) is ideal for hardwood cuttings of deciduous plants.
This method works well for many woody shrubs, vines, and trees that have woody, mature stems, dormant or slowed metabolic activity and the ability to root easily without active foliage.
  • Choose healthy, dormant, non-flowering stems.
  • Plant in moist, well-draining medium.
  • Place cuttings in a sheltered, bright area with indirect light.
  • Keep the medium moist, and check for roots after 6–8 weeks.
  August   September  
Plant propagation

Plant propagation

Details   There are many ways to obtain healthy plants for next to nothing. By propagating your own plants you not only save money but can introduce genetic variation by starting new plants from seed.

If you are looking to replicate a natural ecosystem or create a biodiverse and healthy garden you are going to need a lot of plants. Many species can be cloned by taking cuttings or by layering.

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propagation