Plant Propagation: Taking Cuttings for New Growth

Love a plant but it's too big indoors? Take a cutting—propagation creates a smaller clone perfect for indoor gardens. Method depends on plant type.

Hardwood Cuttings (Slow, Hardy)

• Take 5" cuttings in mid-winter dormancy.
• Place cut-side up in sand pail, fill with water.
• Wait until spring—nodules form on submerged end, become roots when planted.

Softwood Cuttings (Faster, Needs Care)

• Take during active growth. Cut new growth back to a node (last year's growth point).
• Use rooting hormone (nursery-available).
• Plant cut-side down in rooting medium IMMEDIATELY—drying out kills success.
• Pot up once roots develop; follow species care.

Propagation lets you multiply favorites and adapt outdoor plants for indoor joy.