Propagating Plants from Cuttings the Easy Way

One of the most magical aspects of gardening is creating new plants from existing ones. Propagation from cuttings is free, surprisingly simple, and incredibly satisfying. Many common houseplants and garden shrubs root readily from stem cuttings, giving you unlimited new plants to keep, share, or fill your garden beds.

Take cuttings from healthy, mature stems in spring or early summer. Cut a 10 to 15 centimetre section just below a leaf node using clean, sharp scissors. Remove the lower leaves, leaving two to three at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder (available at any nursery) and plant it in a pot filled with moist seedling mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or cut-off bottle to create a humid mini greenhouse.

Place the cutting in a warm spot with bright, indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist. Most cuttings develop roots within two to six weeks. Tug gently on the stem - if you feel resistance, roots have formed and the plastic cover can be removed. Pothos, philodendron, coleus, fuchsia, rosemary, and geraniums all propagate easily from cuttings. This technique lets you create matching sets of plants for gifts or replicate your favourite specimens endlessly.