How to Propagate Flowers by Cuttings? A Detailed Guide to the Basic Methods

In the previous article we discussed layering propagation of flowers. As experienced gardeners know, besides layering, cuttings are also a very common method of flower propagation. Cutting propagation means taking cuttings: cutting the stems, roots, leaves, or buds of a flower, inserting them into soil or soaking them in water, and once they have rooted they can be planted and grown into new plants. However, different flowers have different requirements for cuttings. Let's take a look together at a detailed guide to flower cutting methods.

1. Types of Cuttings

There are 3 types of cuttings: leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and root cuttings. This classification is based on the maturity of the cutting and the different organs of the flower. In addition, depending on the cutting period and method, cuttings can also be divided into split cuttings, heel cuttings, and so on.

(1) Leaf Cuttings

Flowers that can be propagated by leaf cuttings have thick leaf stalks, veins, or fleshy leaves. The leaves used for leaf cuttings must be well developed; for best results, this is generally done in a propagation bed. Leaf cuttings are further divided into 3 types: whole-leaf cuttings, partial-leaf cuttings, and bud-leaf cuttings:

(2) Stem Cuttings

Location is not restricted. Depending on the season and species, and to improve the survival rate, you can cover with plastic sheeting for insulation or use a shade shed to block light. Stem cuttings are further divided into 3 types: softwood cuttings, semi-softwood cuttings, and hardwood cuttings.

(3) Root Cuttings

Some herbaceous perennial flowers can produce adventitious buds from their roots to form young plants; this situation is suitable for root cutting propagation. The roots of such flowers are very thick, no less than 2mm. Within the same species, thicker and longer roots are easier to root successfully. This can be done in early spring or late autumn, or you can dig up the mother plant in autumn, store the roots over winter, and take cuttings the following spring.

2. Keys to Survival

To ensure the survival of cuttings, you must pay attention to the following key issues.

(1) Selection and Handling of Cuttings

The branches used for cuttings must be healthy. Softwood cuttings should be planted immediately after collection. For succulents, after cutting, place them in a ventilated spot to dry for a few days, and once the cut surface has shrunk and dried, then take the cutting. To prevent rot, you can singe the cut with a small flame, or dip the cut in freshly burned plant ash.

(2) Temperature for Cuttings

The optimal temperature for cuttings is 20-25°C. Too low or too high a temperature will affect growth. Therefore, if the temperature can be controlled, cuttings can be taken in all four seasons. Under natural conditions, it is best to choose spring or autumn.

(3) Humidity for Cuttings

Keep the cutting medium in a moderately moist state. Air humidity must also be ensured, for example by covering with plastic film, but ventilation must still be provided.