How to Grow New Plants from Cuttings

Cuttings are an effective and convenient method for growing new plants. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner, propagating plants from cuttings can be a rewarding experience. This guide explores the process of taking cuttings from various plants, including the pancake plant, hydrangea, monstera, and orchid. We’ll address common queries and offer useful tips to simplify the process.

What Are Cuttings?

Cuttings involve growing new plants from sections of an existing plant, which can include leaves, stems, or even roots, depending on the species. The main advantage of this technique is that the new plants are genetic clones of the original, making it a cost-effective way to expand your plant collection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cuttings

How long does it take for a cutting to grow roots?

The time required for cuttings to develop roots can vary based on the plant and environmental conditions. Typically, it may take from a few weeks to several months. To encourage quicker root development, keep your cuttings in a warm, moist environment.

How can I tell when a cutting is ready to be planted?

Your cutting is ready for planting when the roots are several centimetres long and well-formed. For some plants, roots may start appearing through the soil, indicating it's time to transplant.

Do cuttings always need to be kept in water?

No, not all cuttings require water. Some can be planted directly in soil. It depends on the plant type and its specific needs. However, starting cuttings in water can be beneficial as it allows you to observe root development.

How to Take Cuttings from Popular Plants

Here’s how to propagate cuttings from some well-known plants.

Pancake Plant or Chinese Money Plant Cuttings

The pancake plant, also known as the Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides), is renowned for its charming, round leaves and low maintenance. Cuttings are typically taken from the small offshoots or "pups" that emerge from the base of the plant.

How to Take Cuttings:

1. Select a healthy pup that is at least 5-10 cm long.
2. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut the pup.
3. Allow the cut surface to dry for a few hours to prevent rotting.
4. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil and place it in a spot with indirect light.

Hydrangea Cuttings

Hydrangeas are beautiful shrubs that propagate well from cuttings. The optimal time to take hydrangea cuttings is late summer or early autumn.

How to Take Cuttings:

1. Cut a healthy stem about 10-15 cm long from the hydrangea.
2. Remove the lower leaves to avoid them touching the soil.
3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to stimulate root growth.
4. Plant the cutting in a mix of potting soil and perlite or sand to ensure good drainage.
5. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse and maintain soil moisture.

Monstera Cuttings

The Monstera (Monstera deliciosa) is a popular indoor plant known for its large, distinctive leaves. Cuttings are typically taken from aerial roots or leaves with a portion of stem.

How to Take Cuttings:

1. Cut a healthy stem with an aerial root or several leaves and nodes.
2. Place the cutting in a pot with soil or in water.
3. If using water, wait until the roots are a few centimetres long before transferring the cutting to soil.

Orchid Cuttings

Propagating orchids can be somewhat challenging, but with patience, it’s achievable. Orchids are often propagated by separating pseudobulbs or using keikis (baby orchids).

How to Take Cuttings:

1. Carefully separate the pseudobulbs from the main plant, ensuring each has some roots.
2. Plant the pseudobulbs in a specialised orchid potting mix.
3. For keikis, wait until they have developed a few roots before removing them from the main plant and planting them.

Essential Tools for Propagating Plants

• Rooting Hormone: Enhances root development and improves the chances of successful rooting.
• Misting Bottle: Maintains high humidity around your cuttings, crucial for tropical plants like monstera and orchids.
• Propagation Pots and Trays: Specially designed pots and trays with excellent drainage promote healthy root growth.
• Clean Scissors: Important for making precise cuts and preventing infections.
• Potting Mixes: Use appropriate mixes for each plant type to ensure proper drainage and nutrients.

Propagating plants from cuttings is a fantastic way to grow your collection and add vibrant greenery to your home or garden. With the right techniques and tools, you can successfully cultivate new pancake plants, hydrangeas, monsteras, and orchids. Be patient, care for your cuttings well, and you’ll soon enjoy a flourishing assortment of plants you’ve nurtured yourself. Happy gardening!