Stem cutting
What is stem cutting?
Stem cutting is a method of vegetative propagation in which a section of stem is removed from a healthy parent plant and encouraged to form its own roots and shoots. The resulting plant is normally genetically identical to the parent plant.
When is it useful?
Stem cuttings are useful for species that readily form adventitious roots from stems. They are especially useful when the characteristics of a particular plant should be preserved rather than producing genetically variable seedlings.
Basic procedure
- Select healthy, vigorous plant material without obvious signs of disease or pests.
- Cut a suitable section of stem with a clean, sharp tool. The appropriate maturity, length and number of nodes depend on the species.
- Remove leaves that would be buried and, where appropriate, reduce excessive leaf area to limit water loss.
- Place the cutting in a clean, moist and well-aerated rooting medium. Rooting hormone may help some species but is not always necessary.
- Keep the cutting humid and protected from excessive sun while roots develop, but avoid permanently waterlogged conditions.
- After a sufficient root system has developed, gradually acclimatize the new plant and transplant it to its intended growing location.
Different types of stem cutting
Depending on the plant, stem cuttings may be herbaceous, softwood, semi-hardwood or hardwood. The best type, size, season and rooting conditions vary considerably between species.
Important
Always check the species-specific propagation information before taking cuttings. The general method described here does not replace species-specific requirements.