How to Take Fall Plant Cuttings

Overview

It's fun to realize that you can do the work of a botanist and propagate new plants from cuttings.Taking cuttings of plants you already own is a fairly simple and cost-saving way to have more plants and to get a head-start on spring. Moreover, you will know that your new plant will be identical to the old plant. You can easily take cuttings from flowering plants such as geraniums or fushias or from shrubs such as redtwig dogwood or huckleberry.

Step 1

Cut small stems from the ends of side branches, approximately 5 inches long. Avoid tender shoots from the middle of the plant or shoots that have any abnormal growth.

Step 2

Remove the lower third of leaves from the stems in order to reduce the amount of water the new shoot requires. Remove enough leaves so that the lower leaves do not touch the rooting mixture to lessen the change of rotting.

Step 3

Dip the stem into the rooting hormone according to the instructions given on the product.

Step 4

Place the stems in the rooting mixture being careful not to knock off the rooting hormone and water.

Step 5

Place the cuttings in a spot that gets plenty of light, but not direct hot sun, and away from drafts. You can root cuttings indoors or outdoors in a coldframe or greenhouse.

Step 6

Lift the rooted cuttings very carefully and plant directly in soil once roots have formed and all danger of frost has passed in your region