A guide to growing plants from cuttings
Plants are truly amazing, able to regenerate from just a single tiny bit of themselves. Taking a cutting is a cheap and easy way to grow new plants. Here’s our step-by-step guide on what you need to know.
1. Choose a reasonably new but mature growth from your desired plant. Select tip pieces that are at least 10 centimetres long for perennials and 15 centimetres for shrubs. Make sure there are at least two sets of leaves on it. Using pruners, cut at 30 degree angle, leaving the cutting with a point (unless otherwise advised for your chosen plant).
2. Remove a half to two thirds of bottom leaves. Cut just below the node. Snip flower buds and if leaves are large, cut them in half. They will just allow water to escape form the plant.
3. Use a blade to scrape about a centimetre of the sides at the base of the stem. This will encourage roots to develop.
4. Treat the cutting by placing in a weak mixture of water and seaweed-based liquid fertiliser for a couple of hours. This will give the cutting a better chance of taking root.
5. Now create a rooting medium for your cutting. You can start cuttings in sand, soil and water. Alternatively, you can buy seed raising mix from your local gardening store. Your choice will depend on your plant’s preferences. If using soil or a mix, use a pencil to make a small hole for the cutting to slip into and insert cutting into hole and firm up soil to hold upright.
6. Water your cutting well when first planted. Use a spray or mister to ensure your plants aren’t overwatered.
7. Place cutting in bright shaded spot (not in direct sunlight as it is too intense on roots). Cover the cutting with a mini greenhouse or loosely with a plastic bag to help cutting retain moisture. Check regularly to ensure mix or soil is still moist and water gently if necessary.
8. After about six to eight week, gently tug at the cutting to check if it has formed roots on the base. If you feel resistance, roots have begun to form and grow. Now your cuttings can be transplanted to their final growing spot.