Tips for Taking Cuttings

Written by Amy Gordon (last updated November 15, 2023)

Plant cutting is a great method to make more plants out of the plants that you already have. Plant cutting is done by cutting off part of the parent plant (usually the top) and putting that piece into soil so it can grow into its own plant. To really let the cutting become its own plant, it is best to put it in a protected environment where it can grow without harsh interferences from other plants and bad conditions.

One of the best ways to make a good cutting is to put it in a hanging bag of soil. This not only makes a great space saver, it also works well to protect the plant from the environment to let it really grow. Try it next time you want to make a cutting of your begonias, dieffenbachias, and other like plants.

To get started, make sure to use a different bag for each kind of cutting, since the different plants have different rates of root growth. Mix peat and perlite or vermiculite, all of which are available at any garden center, in equal parts in a bowl or pot. Make sure to mix enough to fill a large, strong, transparent plastic bag. Moisten the mixture thoroughly and place the mixture in the bag. Be sure to poke small holes in the bottom of the bag for drainage. Close the bag with stout cord. Poke small holes into the sides of the bag and gently insert your stem cuttings. Hang in an airy, well-lit place with a waterproof floor. In the summer, great locations include a shaded corner of a balcony or patio, or a garage window. In the winter, hang the bag over the draining board of a sink that you do not use too often, perhaps in a utility room.

Spray the cuttings daily, letting water run down the stems to re-moisten the rooting mixture. When the cuttings have rooted, slit the bag open with a knife. Plant the now growing cuttings in the location of your choice and enjoy the beautiful addition to your garden.

Author Bio

Amy Gordon

Amy Gordon loves keeping things simple, natural, and safe so she can spend more time having fun. Every day she learns new things about making life at home easier and she loves to share it with you! ...

MORE FROM AMY

Remove Permanent Marker from Counters and Appliances

Permanent marker isn't as permanent as one might think. Alcohol on a paper towel will absorb permanent marker from a ...

Discover More

Removing Soft Drink Stains

You can remove soft drinks stains on the carpet by blotting them with a white cloth and a couple drops of liquid ...

Discover More

Control Caterpillars in Your Garden

Caterpillars can be both pretty and exciting for small children, but they will also destroy your garden if left alone. ...

Discover More
More Gardening Tips

Flowers for the Window Box

A window box is simply another way to become creative with container gardening. Choose flowers for your window boxes ...

Discover More

Meanings of Flowers

If you've ever received flowers, you realize how much the gift can mean. But are you aware that all flowers have specific ...

Discover More

Attracting Hummingbirds

Like all birds, hummingbirds choose nesting materials from flower gardens, lawns, and foliage. Make sure that you not ...

Discover More
Subscribe

FREE SERVICE: Receive an e-mail several times each week with a featured gardening tip. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."

Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is one minus 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)


Subscribe

FREE SERVICE: Receive an e-mail several times each week with a featured gardening tip. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."

(Your e-mail address is not shared with anyone, ever.)