10 Easy Plants You Can Propagate from Cuttings This August

10 Easy Plants You Can Propagate from Cuttings This August

August may feel like a lounging month, but it presents a golden opportunity for gardeners to expand their plant collection! While September might be the peak harvest time, taking cuttings now can ensure that your garden thrives come spring. Let’s dive into the easy plants you can propagate from cuttings this month.

Can You Take Cuttings in August?

Absolutely! Although spring and fall are often considered ideal for taking cuttings, summer, especially August, is also a great time—provided you keep a few guidelines in mind. Many cuttings fail to root due to over-watering or letting them dry out. In August, your main concern should be preventing cuttings from drying out.

What Cuttings Can You Take in August?

In the summer, semi-ripe (or semi-hardwood) cuttings are key. This is the middle ground between the soft spring growth and the hard winter stems. Here’s a list of popular plants you can easily propagate this August:

1. Lavender

Lavender is a favorite for a reason! To propagate, trim a flexible, non-flowering shoot approximately 6 inches (15 cm) long, and remove leaves from the lower three-quarters. Keep it in well-draining soil and water regularly, avoiding sogginess. Root growth may begin in as little as six weeks.

2. Rosemary

Rosemary cuttings are just as simple. Trim the stems and save the discarded leaves for culinary use. Ensure good drainage by incorporating perlite or horticultural sand into your potting mix.

3. Pelargonium Geraniums

In temperate climates, pelargonium geraniums often die back in winter. Taking cuttings now will keep your plants safe indoors through the colder months. Root them in water before transferring to soil.

4. Coleus

Coleus adds vibrant colors but doesn’t fare well in cold. Trim branches just below leaf nodes, place them in water, and refresh weekly. Even if leaves drop, as long as roots form, your cuttings are fine.

5. Sage

Sage cuttings are forgiving and great for gifting. Strip leaves from the lower part of the stems and plant them directly in soil. Keep them in partial shade until they establish roots.

6. Hydrangea

For hydrangeas, use non-flowering stems and remember to keep them well-watered while avoiding direct sunlight. Cuttings should be taken low on the plant, under leaf nodes.

7. Clematis

Taking clematis cuttings is trickier. Use semi-hardwood material and cut between leaf nodes. Follow specific methods to ensure correct placement in soil.

8. Rhododendron

Like hydrangeas, rhododendrons should be propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings. Keep them out of full sun and ensure not to over-water.

9. Star Jasmine

Star jasmine is an easier alternative to clematis. Use non-flowering stems and cuttings should start just below a leaf node. Scoring the stems can speed up root formation.

10. Begonia

Begonias need indoor care during the winter. Take cuttings below the leaf node, place them in water, and watch them sprout roots within weeks. They’ll likely undergo some transformation, but as long as roots form, they will thrive.

Conclusion

Taking cuttings in August is a fantastic way to ensure a lively garden next spring. With just a little effort, you can multiply your favorite plants at no cost. Grab your garden snips and get started on these easy propagations!