Steps for Harvesting Summer Plant Clippings at Home
Fresh Take:
Growing new plants from cuttings? Easy peasy! Summers are perfect for that, and here's how to make it work with penstemon and other lush perennials like rosemary and lavender. In the video above, David Hurrion walks you through the process of taking summer cuttings from penstemon.
But that's not all, mate! There are various methods to add more greenery to your garden. Other cuttings to try include root cuttings, basal cuttings, leaf cuttings, and hardwood cuttings. Arm yourself with only the necessary tools, and you're ready to go!
Taking Cuttings, Step by Step
Ever wondered how to take summer cuttings? Here's a simple guide to get you started.
You'll Need:
- A 10cm pot
- Multi-purpose, peat-free compost
- Perlite
- A knife
- Hormone rooting powder (optional)
- A clear plastic bag
- A watering can with rose attachment
The Process:
- Snip: Snip 3-5 inches off of new growth from plants. Stop just below a leaf node.
- Prune: Remove the bottom third to half of the leaves.
- Rooting Powder (optional): If you want, dip the base of the cutting into rooting powder to encourage faster growth.
- Plant: Fill the 10cm pot with a compost mixture (pear-free compost mixed with equal parts perlite) and stick the cuttings in it, leaving some space between them.
- Water and Cover: Water thoroughly, let it drain, then cover the pot with a clear plastic bag and wrap it up.
- Place: Put the pot in a well-lit spot indoors, away from direct sun. Keep the compost moist and wait. In six to eight weeks, your new plants should be ready to go!
In-depth Info
- Summer cuttings work best for both penstemon and other perennials like rosemary and lavender.
- Make sure to choose healthy, non-flowering stems for the best results.
- If using rooting powder, make sure to shake off the excess.
- Covering the pot helps maintain humidity, preventing the cuttings from drying out.
- Roots typically form best along the edges of the pot, so plant accordingly.
- For other perennials, like lavender, tip or softwood cuttings work best.
- Some plants, like penstemon, can also be propagated through division or layering.
So, there you have it! Getting started with summer cuttings has never been easier. Happy gardening!
Combine your home-and-garden passion with the delight of gardening by taking summer cuttings from plants like penstemon and rosemary. To facilitate a smooth and successful process, follow the step-by-step guide provided, which covers everything from choosing the right tools to caring for your cuttings.
