Where to cut for propagation?
Cut stems just below a bud Using a sharp knife (or pruners) cut just below where a leaf attaches to the stem (the node). Roots grow easiest from this location. The most common propagation methods are either by stem or leaf cuttings. To get your cutting to root, the easiest way is to place the cutting in a glass vessel filled with water.Pairing your propagations with faster rooting plants such as spider plants, pothos, swedish ivy, tradescantia, or if you can find a willow branch, add that to the water vessel too! It can really help speed up root development! More rooting hormones in the water = faster root growth.
Can you propagate from a cutting?
Many houseplants, annuals, perennials, and woody plants can be propagated by stem cuttings when they are in active growth and the stems are soft. Cut off a piece of stem, 2-6 inches long. There should be at least three sets of leaves on the cutting. They can be rejuvenated to produce dense branching by cutting back all stems by several feet in late winter before growth begins. This produces very full foliage. Alternatively, up to one third of the individual stems can be removed all the way to the base at any time from late winter to late summer.
Is it better to root cuttings in water or soil?
Many plants will root from just a section of a plant. Some plants will root in water, but cuttings will develop a better root system when rooted in a soil-less potting mix. Sand or perlite can also be used, especially for cuttings that need good drainage and may rot if kept too wet. Cut at a 45-degree angle to get the most rooting area. Remove the lower leaves. Cuttings don’t have the root system to take up water yet, so fewer leaves means less stress on the cutting,” said Thomas.