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Root cutting

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What is root cutting?

Root cutting is a method of vegetative propagation in which a section of root is removed from a healthy parent plant and used to produce a new plant. In suitable species, buds and new shoots develop from the root section and eventually form an independent plant.

When is it useful?

Root cuttings can be useful for species that naturally produce new shoots from their roots. The method produces plants genetically identical to the parent plant and can therefore be used to preserve desirable characteristics.

Basic procedure

  1. Select a healthy, vigorous parent plant and expose suitable roots carefully without causing unnecessary damage.
  2. Choose healthy roots of an appropriate thickness. Very old, damaged or diseased roots should not be used.
  3. Cut the roots into sections with a clean, sharp tool. The appropriate length and thickness depend on the species.
  4. Keep the root sections moist and do not allow them to dry out while they are being prepared.
  5. Plant the sections in a clean, moist and well-aerated propagation medium. Depending on the species and root size, they may be placed horizontally or vertically.
  6. Maintain suitable moisture and temperature while new shoots and roots develop, avoiding permanently waterlogged conditions.
  7. Once a new plant has developed a sufficient root system and active shoot growth, gradually acclimatize and transplant it.

Orientation of root sections

With some species, maintaining the original orientation of the root is important. When root sections are planted vertically, the end that was originally closer to the crown of the parent plant should normally remain uppermost. Marking or making different cuts at the two ends can help preserve the correct orientation.

Root cutting is not root division

Root cutting should not be confused with division. In root cutting, a piece of root without an established shoot is used to generate a new plant. In division, an existing plant, clump, rhizome or similar structure is separated into portions that already contain growing points or shoots.

Important

Many plant species cannot be propagated successfully from root cuttings. Root thickness, cutting length, orientation, season, temperature and planting depth vary between species. Always check the species-specific propagation information before taking root cuttings.

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