Which Trees and Plants Can Be Grown From Cuttings
Growing plants from cuttings is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to propagate new trees and plants. With this method, you take a small cutting from the mother plant and plant it into soil or water. Over time, the cutting will develop roots and grow into a new, independent plant. But not all plants can be propagated through cuttings. So, which trees and plants can be grown from cuttings? Let’s find out.
Herbs
Herbs are some of the easiest plants to propagate from cuttings. Most herbs, including rosemary, thyme, mint, and basil, can be grown from stem cuttings. Simply cut a 4-6 inch piece of stem, remove the lower leaves from the bottom of the stem, and place the cutting in soil. Keep the soil moist and watch as the cutting develops roots and grows into a new plant. Herbs are also great for indoor gardening.
Succulents
Succulents, like cacti and jade plants, are popular houseplants that are also very easy to propagate from cuttings. Most succulents can be propagated by taking a leaf or stem cutting and allowing it to dry for a few days. Once the cutting has calloused over, simply plant it in soil and wait for it to develop roots. Succulents can also be propagated by division, which involves separating a mature plant into smaller pieces and replanting them.
Fruit Trees
Fruit trees, like apples, pears, and plums, can be propagated from cuttings, but this method is a bit more difficult than propagating herbs or succulents. Fruit tree cuttings must be taken during the right season and they require a hormone rooting powder to encourage the development of roots. It’s also important to keep the cuttings moist and warm during the rooting process. With patience and care, however, fruit tree cuttings can develop into productive trees.
Roses
Roses are a popular plant for propagation through cuttings. Rose cuttings are typically taken in the summer, after the plant has bloomed. The cuttings should be about 6-8 inches long and taken from the new growth on the plant. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in soil and keep it covered and moist until the roots develop.
Shrubs
Shrubs, like butterfly bushes and hydrangeas, can also be propagated through cuttings. The best time to take cuttings for shrubs is in the early summer, when the new growth is still soft and flexible. Remove a 4-6 inch section of stem and remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant in soil. Keep the soil moist and watch as your new shrub develops.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many trees and plants that can be grown from cuttings. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, propagating through cuttings is an easy and affordable way to expand your collection of plants. Before you start, it’s important to research the specific needs of your plant and follow the proper procedures for taking and planting cuttings. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the rewards of growing your own plants from cuttings.