Growing herbs from cuttings is an easy and cost-effective way to expand your garden. This method lets you create new plants from existing ones without the need for seeds.
By following a few simple steps, you can grow many popular culinary and medicinal herbs from cuttings.
This article will explore 11 ideal herbs for this propagation method. These herbs are easy to cultivate, bring delicious flavors to your cooking, and can be used for various home remedies.
1) Basil
Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow from cuttings, providing gardeners with a continuous supply of fragrant herbs.
To start, take a 4-inch cutting from a healthy basil plant and remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top two sets. Then, place the cutting in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill.
Within a week or two, roots will begin to form. Once the roots are about 2 inches long, the cutting can be planted in the soil.
Growing basil from cuttings cuts growing time by about half compared to starting from seed.
Basil cuttings can be grown year-round, making it a versatile herb for indoor and outdoor gardens. With proper care, these new plants will soon provide fresh basil leaves for cooking and garnishing.
2) Rosemary
Rosemary is a popular herb that grows well from cuttings, making it a great choice for gardeners.
To start, take 3- to 6-inch softwood stem cuttings from a healthy rosemary plant. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top few sets.
You can root rosemary cuttings in water or soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a glass of clean water and change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Then, plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil.
Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm spot with indirect sunlight. In a few weeks, roots will develop, and you’ll have a new rosemary plant.
3) Mint
Mint is a fast-growing plant and one of the easiest herbs to grow from cuttings, making it ideal for beginners.
To start, cut stems about 3 to 5 inches long from a healthy mint plant and remove the lower leaves, keeping only the top ones intact.
Place the cuttings in a glass of water and wait for the roots to develop. This process usually takes about a week. Once roots appear, the cuttings can be planted in the soil.
Mint prefers moist soil and partial shade. It’s important to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or inadequate light.
With proper care, mint cuttings will grow into full plants within a few weeks. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy.
4) Oregano
Oregano is a popular herb that grows well from cuttings. To start, choose healthy stems that are 3 to 5 inches long and cut them just below a leaf node using sharp scissors.
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, as this part will go in water or soil to grow roots. Leave a few leaves at the top to help the plant grow.
You can root oregano cuttings in water or soil. For water propagation, place the stems in a glass of clean water and change the water every few days.
For soil propagation, plant the cuttings in small pots with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Roots should develop in 6-8 weeks.
Once roots are 1-2 inches long, transplant the new oregano plants to larger pots or into your garden. With proper care, these cuttings will grow into full oregano plants.
5) Thyme
Thyme is a great herb to grow from cuttings, perfect for cooking and gardening.
To start, choose healthy stems that are about 4 inches long. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only the top few pairs.
You can propagate thyme cuttings either in water or soil. If you choose water propagation, place the stems in a clean jar and change the water every few days.
For soil rooting, dip the cut end in the rooting hormone before planting. To avoid rot, use a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright area, but not in direct sunlight. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Once roots are about half an inch long, transplant the cuttings into the soil. Water regularly and watch your new thyme plants grow.
6) Lavender
Lavender is a popular fragrant herb that grows well from cuttings. It’s easy to propagate lavender from cuttings in just a few simple steps.
To start, choose healthy stems from a mature lavender plant. Cut 3-6 inch sections, making sure to cut just below a leaf node at a 45-degree angle.
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of each cutting. This exposes the nodes where roots will form. You can dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage growth, but it’s not required.
Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist, and place the pot in a warm spot with indirect light. After 2-4 weeks, gently tug on the cuttings to check for root development.
Once rooted, transplant the new lavender plants to their permanent location. These cuttings will grow into full, fragrant lavender plants with proper care.
7) Sage
Sage is a popular herb that can be grown from cuttings. To start, select a healthy sage plant and take cuttings about 4-5 inches long.
Next, strip the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top. This bare stem is where new roots will form.
You can root sage cuttings in water or soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a glass of clean water. For soil, plant the cutting about an inch deep in a moist potting mix.
Keep the cuttings in a warm spot with indirect light. Maintain moisture but avoid overwatering. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Once roots are established, transplant the new sage plants to larger pots or into your garden. With proper care, these propagated sage plants will grow into healthy herbs for your kitchen.
8) Bee Balm
Bee balm is a beautiful herb that can be grown from cuttings. To start, cut a 4-6 inch stem from the top of a healthy plant. Make sure the stem has 2-3 sets of leaves and is not flowering.
Remove the lower leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. This helps the stem focus energy on growing roots instead of maintaining leaves.
Place the cutting in moist soil or a container with water, and keep it in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Once roots have formed, transplant the new bee balm plant to its permanent location. Choose a spot with well-draining soil and partial sun. Water regularly until established.
9) Parsley
Growing parsley from cuttings can be tricky, with a lower success rate than other herbs.
To try this method, select a healthy stem about 4-5 inches long with leaves at the top.
Growing parsley from cuttings requires placing the stem about an inch deep in potting soil. Keep the soil moist and put the cutting in a shady spot with indirect light.
For best results, use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite as the growing medium. Make a hole in the soil, insert the cutting, and pack the soil around it firmly.
Water the soil and place the container near a bright window. Check daily for signs of mold or fungus. With patience and care, roots may develop, and new growth may appear.
10) Chives
Chives are easy to grow from cuttings. Start by selecting a healthy stem from the parent plant, making sure it has 2-3 nodes. Cut the stem to 4-6 inches long, making clean cuts below and above the nodes.
Next, remove lower leaves, leaving a few at the top. Then, fill a small pot with well-draining potting mix and moisten it. Plant the cutting and water it immediately.
Place the pot in a sunny spot. Chives need 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Chives prefer soil amended with compost. They don’t do well in clay-heavy soil. Rich organic matter provides the nutrients chives need to thrive.
With proper care, new chive plants will grow from these cuttings, offering an easy way to propagate chives and expand your herb garden.
11) Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a fragrant herb that grows well from cuttings. It’s known for its citrusy scent and flavor.
To start, take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems. Remove the lower leaves, keeping only the new growth at the tip.
Place the cuttings in water and wait for the roots to form. This process can take a few weeks. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh.
Once roots appear, plant the cuttings in well-draining soil. Make a small hole about 1 inch deep and place the rooted end inside. Fill with soil, being careful not to let it touch the leaves.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Lemon balm prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun. With proper care, these cuttings will grow into healthy plants.
12) Tarragon
Tarragon is a popular herb that grows well from cuttings. It has a distinct anise-like flavor that adds depth to many dishes.
There are two main types of tarragon: French and Russian. French tarragon is prized for its flavor and is often used in cooking.
To grow tarragon from cuttings, start with a healthy stem from an existing plant. Cut a 4-6 inch section just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in well-draining soil.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Tarragon prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Space plants about 2 feet apart to allow for growth.
Once established, tarragon is fairly low-maintenance. It’s a perennial herb in many climates, though the tops may die back in winter.
Benefits of Growing Herbs From Cuttings
Growing herbs from cuttings offers several advantages for gardeners. It’s a simple and effective way to expand your herb garden quickly, and this method helps preserve the traits of the parent plant.
Cost-Effectiveness
Growing herbs from cuttings is very budget-friendly. Gardeners can start new plants without buying seeds or seedlings. This saves money when purchasing new plants each season.
Many herbs like basil, rosemary, and mint grow easily from cuttings.
Gardeners can take cuttings from existing plants or a friend’s plants. This allows for free expansion of the herb collection.
With proper care, a single plant can provide multiple cuttings. This multiplies the savings over time as the garden grows larger. It’s economical to have a diverse herb garden without a large investment.
Time Efficiency
Propagating herbs from cuttings is faster than growing from seeds.
Cuttings often develop roots within weeks, giving gardeners a head start compared to seed germination.
Many herbs grown from cuttings reach maturity quickly. This means less waiting time before harvesting. Gardeners can enjoy fresh herbs sooner in the growing season.
Cuttings also bypass the delicate seedling stage, reducing the time and effort needed for early plant care.
Enhanced Growth and Yield
Growing herbs from cuttings often results in stronger, healthier plants with consistent flavor and growth habits inherited from the parent plant.
These plants usually have a more established root system from the beginning, leading to faster growth and higher yields.
Taking cuttings can also promote bushier plants, as the parent plant often grows back fuller, resulting in more abundant harvests from both the new and original plants.
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Herbs From Cuttings
Growing herbs from cuttings is an easy and cost-effective way to expand your herb garden. This method allows you to create new plants from existing ones, ensuring you have a continuous supply of fresh herbs.
Choosing the Right Cuttings
Select healthy, disease-free plants for taking cuttings. Look for 4-6 inches long stems with fresh growth. Basil, rosemary, and sage are excellent herbs to start with.
Choose stems that haven’t flowered yet, as these will root more easily. The best time to take cuttings is in the morning when plants are well-hydrated.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. This helps prevent damage to the parent plant and gives the cutting the best chance of success.
Preparation of Cuttings
Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving a few at the top to reduce water loss and aid in root development.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage faster root growth. This step is optional but can increase success rates.
Prepare small pots with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure the pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Use a pencil or small stick to create holes in the soil for planting the cuttings. This prevents damage to the delicate stems.
Planting and Initial Care
Plant the cuttings about 1-2 inches deep in the prepared soil. Gently press the soil around the stem to ensure good contact.
Water the soil thoroughly and place a clear plastic bag over the pot to create a humid environment. This helps prevent moisture loss.
Place the pots in a warm, bright location without direct sunlight. A spot that receives indirect light is ideal.
Check the cuttings daily and remove any signs of rot or disease. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering.
Transplanting
After 2-3 weeks, gently tug on the cuttings. If you feel resistance, roots have likely formed. Remove the plastic bag and gradually expose the plants to more light.
Once the cuttings have developed a strong root system (usually after 4-6 weeks), they’re ready for transplanting.
Prepare larger pots or garden beds with well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Carefully remove the rooted cuttings from their original pots.
Plant the new herbs permanently, spacing them according to their mature size. Water must be thoroughly protected from strong winds or harsh sunlight for the first few days.
Common Issues and Solutions
Growing herbs from cuttings can be challenging. Here are key problems that may arise and ways to address them effectively.
Dealing With Root Rot
Root rot is a common issue when propagating herbs from cuttings. It happens when cuttings sit in too much water. To prevent this:
• Use well-draining soil or a mix of perlite and peat moss. • Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry. • Ensure pots have drainage holes.
If root rot occurs, remove affected parts and replant in fresh, dry soil. Basil cuttings can develop roots in water but move them to soil once roots form.
Addressing Poor Growth
Poor growth in herb cuttings may result from inadequate light or nutrients. To improve growth:
- Place cuttings in a spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Use a weak liquid fertilizer once roots develop.
- Trim regularly to encourage bushier growth.
Most herbs need plenty of light. If indoor light is limited, use grow lights as a supplement. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to weak, floppy growth.
Preventing Pest Infestations
Herb cuttings can attract pests like aphids or spider mites. To keep pests away:
- Inspect plants regularly for signs of infestation.
- Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for mild cases.
- Remove heavily infested parts to prevent spread.
Healthy plants resist pests better. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding. Some herbs, like rosemary, are naturally pest-resistant, making them easier to grow from cuttings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Propagating herbs from cuttings can be a rewarding way to expand your garden. Success depends on choosing the right herbs and providing proper care.
What are the most successful herbs to propagate from stem cuttings?
Basil, rosemary, mint, oregano, and thyme are the easiest herbs to grow from cuttings. These plants root readily and can thrive in various conditions.
Mint is especially vigorous and can root quickly in water or soil.
What is the optimum environment for rooting herb cuttings?
Herb cuttings need warmth, humidity, and indirect light to root well. An ideal spot is near a window that receives bright, filtered sunlight.
Maintain consistent moisture and temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for best results.
How long does it take for herb cuttings to root when propagated in water?
Most herb cuttings will start developing water roots within 1-2 weeks. Some fast-rooting herbs like basil may show roots in as little as 3-5 days.
Full root development typically takes 3-4 weeks before planting the cutting.
Are there specific herbs that root better in soil compared to water propagation?
Woody herbs like rosemary and thyme often root better in soil. These plants prefer slightly drier conditions and may rot if left in water too long.
Soft-stemmed herbs like basil and mint can root easily in water and soil.
What are the necessary steps to ensure successful propagation from herb cuttings?
Start with healthy 4-6 inch cuttings from new growth to propagate herbs successfully. Remove lower leaves and place them in water or moist soil.
Keep the cuttings warm and humid, and change water regularly if using water propagation.
Can perennial herbs be propagated from cuttings, and if so, which ones?
Yes, many perennial herbs can be propagated from cuttings.
Rosemary, thyme, sage, and lavender are common perennial herbs that grow well from cuttings.
These herbs often produce stronger plants when grown from cuttings than seeds.