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You are here: Home / Plant Propagation / Cuttings / A Simple Way To Root Plants From Cuttings

A Simple Way To Root Plants From Cuttings

Updated : November 1, 2022

135 Comments

Mike McGroarty Sticking Cuttings
Mike McGroarty Sticking Cuttings

This Really is the Most Fun You Can Have with Your Bibs On! 

Mike & Ally taking a break.
Mike & Ally taking a break.

Check Out My Backyard Growing System.

Take a gander at these posts...

  • Grow Your Own Grape Plants
  • How to Grow Roses from Cuttings
  • Propagation From Cuttings
  • Propagating Potentilla from Cuttings
  • How To Build a Plant Propagation Box

Comments

  1. Jenn says

    August 20, 2020 at 12:47 pm

    Mike –

    I started maple cuttings in the spring and several have taken root. A couple dropped their leaves and now have new leaves which I think is all good. I have one in particular that was a little little one and grew about 3 inches and suddenly the leaves started curling up and dropping. I think I should cut the top off and let it begin again from there but exactly where would I make the cut? Above the last stem? Or below it? I really want to save it (kinda got attached).

    Reply
    • Mike says

      August 21, 2020 at 7:53 am

      Jenn,

      I wouldn’t cut it all right now. Just wait and see how it does, then remove dead wood later.

      Reply
  2. Marie says

    June 6, 2020 at 1:08 pm

    Hi Mike, I’ve been reading your emails for over 10 years, you are always motivational and inspirational!! This spring, I trimmed the top 2 feet off very tall elderberry bushes and just stuck them in a pail of water to get to later… haha later never came but they also grew leaves and now a month or more later they have wonderful roots!!! Thanks for sharing your knowledge! I truly appreciate it!
    Marie

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 7, 2020 at 7:34 am

      You’re welcome Marie, enjoy!

      Reply
  3. Tony Galloway says

    November 27, 2019 at 8:09 pm

    Hi Mike.
    I watched your YouTube video on how to grow cuttings.
    I felt I followed your instructions carefully but my cuttings died.
    I began this project about 3 months ago.
    I cut the new growth about six inches in length, then removed the lower leaves.
    I got the sand in a tray with holes in the bottom and watered it well.
    I put the cuttings about 3″ apart and sprayed water on them
    I covered the tray in a white plastic bag with the stick supports so the bag was above the cuttings.
    Once a week I sprayed the cuttings to keep them moist.
    After about one month, the leaves started to fall off.
    Then about two months, all the remaining leaves fell off.
    I thought that new growth would be appearing but the cuttings just seem to die.
    I still have them in the tray but they look dead.
    I can’t understand why my effort has seemed to have failed.
    Did I miss anything?
    Thanks.
    Tony.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      November 28, 2019 at 10:34 am

      Tony,

      It’s really difficult to say, has a lot to do with what you stuck. The plastic bag method works, but it can be too moist in there. Here’s an article about cuttings in the summer/ http://mikesbackyardnursery.com/2015/01/easy-summertime-plant-propagation-techniques-can-home/ and here’s one that you can do now; http://mikesbackyardnursery.com/2015/01/easy-winter-time-plant-propagation-can-home/

      and this; http://mikesbackyardnursery.com/2016/09/hardwood-cuttings-winter-of-20152016/

      Reply
    • Anonymous says

      September 20, 2023 at 5:34 am

      I do cuttings. But I don’t use sand because we’re as it helps root growth it can hinder the leafs. I put cutting a a brown cow top soil mix. Inside of a 1 gallon dark bucket half filled with dirt
      A white bag over the top and mist the soil and leafs. After few weeks I have roots. At that time I put starters in their own 6 inch pot

      Reply
  4. Carrie says

    July 29, 2019 at 10:08 am

    Hi Mike! Thank you for the information on cuttings. I I’ve started some Magnolia cuttings about a month ago. Moisture is staying in the bags just great and in a shaded location. How long before I should remove the bag? I live in Texas and we are in the dead of Summer right now

    Reply
    • Mike says

      July 30, 2019 at 7:35 am

      Carrie,

      They should be rooted in about 5 weeks. You can remove the bag then but keep them shaded and watered well.

      Reply
  5. Michael Smith says

    June 18, 2019 at 9:58 am

    Just watched you’re 10 minute video on rooting cuttings. Question, Stay away from potting soils? Or will that work as well as the sand?

    Please advise I have some great plants that I want to do fifty to a hundred.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 19, 2019 at 11:26 am

      Michael,

      Sand it better, potting soils hold too much water.

      Reply
  6. Joe says

    June 13, 2019 at 7:02 am

    Sorry to hear about your Ally. I had to have Molly put down a while back. She was getting old (14) for a lab, but what really done her in was a moccasin bite. She was a great dog, kind, courageous, and she would awaken me at night when the nightmares came calling. When Michael hit last year and dropped trees and limbs everywhere, you would believe she had gotten a free ticket to Disney with all there was to explore.
    tight lines,
    Joe

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 13, 2019 at 8:23 am

      Thanks Joe.

      Reply
  7. George X. Buckeye says

    June 1, 2019 at 3:18 pm

    Mike I escaped the Buckeye for San Diego. Mild climate, drought, and costly water make growing both hard and easy. Here’s a tip readers may find useful. I discovered trimmings of geraniums, lantana, and azalea grew after I (for the heck of it ), poked some into the holes I made watering trees with a tree spike. About 30 inches deep. Geraniums looked dead for months till winter rain made them explode with lush blooms. With all three, success seems to depend on leaving one leaf. and pinching the hole shut around the stem. No rooting compound was used. Just cuttings stuck in the ground. Spectacular blooms make my place look like I knew what I was doing.
    Thanks for keeping Ohio safe for us. If all Buckeyes left for the winter we’d soon come home to find it occupied by Canadians attracted to the warm climate. And thanks for all the info.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 2, 2019 at 8:01 am

      Thanks George, great tip!

      Reply
    • Judy Sarazin says

      June 10, 2019 at 12:49 am

      I am going to try gardenia cuttings.

      Reply
  8. Jan says

    June 1, 2019 at 12:10 pm

    Hey there Mike,
    Do you ever wet the sand, let the water drain out, and then add your cuttings?
    Or do I understand that you simply start with the sand out of the bag, then “mist” the cuttings starting on the 2nd day and then once or twice a week after that?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 2, 2019 at 8:06 am

      Jan,

      Yes, wet the sand first. Do not stick cuttings in dry sand.

      Reply
  9. Bonnie says

    July 30, 2016 at 10:23 am

    Mike,
    How long does it take for boxwood cuttings to get roots? I have waited 6 weeks and nothing yet.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      July 30, 2016 at 7:37 pm

      Bonnie,

      I’d say 6 to 8 weeks this time of year. Summer

      Reply
  10. Tom says

    May 26, 2015 at 12:33 pm

    Hey Mike, I was hoping you could help me clear up a couple quick questions please.

    I am planning on growing Japanese maple tree cuttings in a sand box with misting system like I have seen in your videos. I live in Georgia so humidity is usually high. Could I just build a top shade cover a few feet above the sand box to help air flow so it doesn’t get too humid or build the cover right on top so the box is fully enclosed?
    Once I have roots, should I leave the cuttings in the sandbox until next spring and then plant in a bed for the strongest roots? I would just decrease watering when they have rooted and keep them covered all through winter right?
    Thank you so much for your help!! I love the university so far!
    Tom

    Reply
    • Mike says

      May 27, 2015 at 6:58 am

      Tom,

      Yes, absolutely shade your cuttings under mist. Japanese maple cuttings are challenging and not usually grown from cuttings, but grafted. I urge you to try a variety of different flowering shrubs as well just to be sure you successfully root lots and lots of cuttings. You can leave them in the sand over winter. I do. Just don’t let them dry out during the winter, water as needed.

      Reply
  11. Sue says

    September 4, 2013 at 2:53 pm

    Hello Mike and all Fellow Gardeners

    First of all, I want to thank you MIke! I followed your video and your advice on how to root burning bushes. I finally have root! It took about 12 weeks to root, but it is worth the wait. I am glad I did more cuttings then I really needed because I did loose quite a few in my first basket of sand. My second basket, which I did about a week later I have only lost about 2 out of 50 cuttings.

    For anyone that is still wondering about using just sand, trust me it works! Make sure you have LOTS of holes in the bottom of your basket, use ANY sand, and cover it with a plastic bag. I used a plant spike instead of pencils (about 8 inches long), put it in the middle of my basket to hold up the plastic bag. As long as you can see wetness inside of the bag, you dont have to do anything. I never opened it until about 3 weeks ago and sprayed them lightly with water from a spray bottle. Cover it back up in the bag and let it grow its roots. Im so excited!

    Thank you Mike, I love your website and videos! You have been a big help

    Reply
    • Mike says

      September 6, 2013 at 7:15 am

      Sue,

      Congratulations and you are welcome. You’re also now addicted to plant propagation and there is no cure. Only to propagate more plants!

      Reply
  12. Peg says

    July 27, 2013 at 7:51 pm

    I got my potentillas and burning bushes in sand and next week I will do butterfly bushes. I have 2 different honeysuckle bushes anr systemd would love to have some for sale next year. Do I use the same method to root them as the bushes? Also, I have lavender and know it will sell here. How do I root that?
    I appreciate all that you do and I don’t know where you find the time to answer our questions. I misplaced my credit card and as soon as I get another one I will be ordering your system.

    Reply
  13. Peg says

    July 15, 2013 at 9:47 pm

    Mike, I asked this on another blog but forget which one so I can’t look it up to see if you answered. I have potentillas and burning bushes in my yard. I plan on taking cuttings soon but I don’t know which variety they are so I can’t tag them with the botanical name. I also have friends who are willing to let me cut their plants. If I don’t know their proper name are they no good to take cuttings?

    Thanks for all yhou do,
    Peg

    Reply
  14. Sue says

    June 3, 2013 at 10:13 am

    Hi Mike
    I live in Ontario and I wanted to know how long does it take for firebush cuttings to root. Im doing it just like you did in your video. I took my cuttings 2 days ago. Will I be able to plant them in the ground this season?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 5, 2013 at 8:11 am

      Sue,

      I’m guessing you mean Burning Bush. Burning Bush will take 6 to 8 weeks, but once they root them make a massive little root ball. You can plant them out this fall.

      Reply
      • Sue says

        June 29, 2013 at 8:19 pm

        Thanks for the info Mike. I have another question tho, once they are ready to be planted into the ground, should I use more then 1 cutting to make up one bush or will one cutting be enough to make a bush. We are planning on using them as a hedge going around our house. We want to have burning bushes and hydrangeas (lime lights) all the way around

        Reply
        • Mike says

          July 1, 2013 at 7:37 pm

          Sue,
          One cutting will make a plant, but root a lot more than you need just in case some fail.

          Reply
          • Sue says

            July 1, 2013 at 8:10 pm

            Thank you

  15. Rob says

    May 16, 2013 at 7:18 am

    Mike.. I am looking for the video where you cut the bottom out of a bucket, buried it, and made hardwood cuttings. Love your new stuff but free plants.com(your other site) is a little easier to find info when you can’t remember something.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      May 16, 2013 at 8:19 pm

      Rob,

      I’ll have to agree with you, but the entire world says that all websites need to be wordpress sites and old html sites like http://freeplants.com are out dated like me. But here’s what you do. When you want to find something just go to google, type in http://mikesbackyardnursery.com/ and whatever you’re looking for. If you’re close you’ll find what you need. But you know what, this method is much better this time of year for plant propagation. http://www.freeplants.com/homemade-plant-propagation.htm The bucket method is okay for some things, but even this I like better than the burying method. http://mikesbackyardnursery.com/2012/12/how-to-build-a-plant-propagation-box/

      Reply
      • Rob says

        May 16, 2013 at 11:17 pm

        That worked.. Thanks. I will keep the bucket method in mind for a later time. I wanted to see it again because i was thinking that the whole in the bottom is letting in heat from the earth. Very interesting. I plan some softwood cuttings soon. 6-1. A park by me has some nice shrubs. Will use the other links you gave me. Ps ..the book was also a big help.

        Reply
      • eb says

        February 9, 2020 at 3:00 pm

        i search the site by typing “site:” before the address and then the search term, like this: site:https://mikesbackyardnursery.com propagation box

        Reply
  16. Lois Heimendinger says

    September 21, 2012 at 9:41 am

    Im looking for juniper, blue or green, weigelia

    Reply
  17. Sue Smith says

    August 10, 2012 at 11:51 am

    I remember you saying at some point a while back that you make your own potting soil. Would you share that ‘recipie’? Thanks in advance.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      August 11, 2012 at 9:27 am

      Here you go Sue http://freeplants.com/ingredients-for-potting-soil.htm

      Reply
  18. Sue Bible says

    July 13, 2012 at 8:29 pm

    I love your videos and reading you replies to others. I’ve had your entire system ( I hope I
    have it all)and when
    I get the blahs-I get a part of your information or watch a video and start dreaming what I will do first.Our water bill is out of sight by the time I water veg garden and all my goodies. Hope to get a well dug soon., then watch out!

    Reply
  19. cheryl lynch says

    June 18, 2012 at 7:53 pm

    Mike, you enjoy what you do so much, I smile every time I get an email from you! Your’re just a sweetheart!

    Reply
  20. Rebecca Wilson says

    June 15, 2012 at 9:44 am

    Mike, The only sand I could find for sale in my city is labeled “Play Sand”. It is pure white and looks very fine. Could I mix something like perlite or some potting soil with it to root my cuttings? Thank you I love all your videos.

    Reply
  21. Laurel says

    June 13, 2012 at 11:10 am

    Hi Mike. I love your info but I just have one question. I live north of the Canadian border. How would I winter my cuttings once they’re rooted? Would it be safe to plant them in, say, September or October, just before the snow flies. I’m in Manitoba and it CAN get very cold here even in the southern part of the province. Thanks again for the info.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 14, 2012 at 12:03 pm

      Laurel, small cuttings are tougher than you think. Plant them as early in the fall as possible so they have a chance to get rooted in before winter. Watch them over the winter to make sure the frost doesn’t push them out of the ground and they’ll be fine.

      Reply
  22. sandra bott says

    June 12, 2012 at 6:29 pm

    Not for everyone but for cheap folks like me that likes to recycle, go to the goodwill or thrift stores. You would be amazed what you can find to work in your garden. Also, I always request paper bags at the grocer store. I make seed cups out of them, They work great.

    Reply
  23. Marian says

    June 12, 2012 at 12:40 pm

    Mike, watching this video I wonder if I have to have play sand or will regular sand I have in my yard work? I have several areas in my yard that has an abundance of white sand. Sure would be cheaper for me. Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 14, 2012 at 12:31 pm

      Marian, the more coarse the sand the better, but any sand that water will run through should work.

      Reply
  24. Wayne says

    June 12, 2012 at 1:42 am

    Hi Mike

    I want to order your system,but I have a few questions before I order.I live in Portland,Or and our state has alot of rules in regard to
    plant nurseries. Second question if I sold online through a web site or eBay would I have trouble sending plants through the mail,or USP.
    Thanks
    Wayne

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 16, 2012 at 10:44 am

      Wayne, all states have regulations regarding plants and shipping plants. Oregon has an incredible growing season and your state is notorious for some of the highest quality nursery stock in the country. Seriously. I buy a lot of plants from Oregon. Will you have problems shipping plants. No you won’t. Oregon, Washington and California are really fussy about what gets shipped into their states, but shipping out of those states is pretty easy. http://freeplants.com/wanted.htm

      Reply
  25. Jan says

    June 10, 2012 at 3:39 pm

    Can you use builder’s sand to root your cuttings in like the sand for children’s sandbox sand?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 16, 2012 at 10:50 am

      Jan, sand goes by many different names depending on where you are buying it. Mason’s sand, used for brick laying is probably a little too fine. But if that’s all you can find then I’d give it a try. I prefer something that has at least really small stones in it.

      Reply
    • Kevin Bruns says

      June 28, 2012 at 8:42 pm

      Jan, I have bought some Builders sand from the Home Depot that I use for my cuttings, so far several of my Japanese Maple cuttings have rooted. Seems to be fine in my opinion.

      Reply
  26. Bob Bulmer says

    June 10, 2012 at 10:00 am

    Mike,
    Will this method that you demonstrate in the video work with Weigela shrubs and how long would you estimate the time for roots to appear.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 16, 2012 at 10:53 am

      Bob, it will work with Wegelia and you should see roots in 3 to 5 weeks for sure.

      Reply
  27. david says

    June 9, 2012 at 8:02 pm

    i am wanting to start some honey suckle and blackberry do i need to do them the same as soft cuttings. put in sand trim bark off an inch or so and put rootin gpowder on them then put in bag like you said. I have done about a 500 plus rootings so far am going top keep thru winter in my rrot cellar and then pot and sell next year will they be ok in root cellar as long as i keep them moist. again thanks for all your knowledge and patients ur the best

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 16, 2012 at 11:05 am

      David, don’t strip the bark from cuttings that you are trying to root. I’m not sure about the root cellar. In most cases it’s better to leave the plants outside where they can go completely dormant for the winter. They need that resting period.

      Reply
  28. Anonymous says

    June 9, 2012 at 5:32 pm

    Mike, I hope you don’t mind that I told my husband I love you. He is okay with it because he sees that all the things you teach me are making me happy and helping us earn a few extra bucks.
    I hope our relationship continues to grow!
    I plan to order your system soon. I have already started many rooted cuttings. Love doing this!

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 6:51 pm

      I feel better than you have chosen to remain anonymus. I hope to have you as a member soon. Take care and enjoy your yard and garden.

      Reply
  29. Terry says

    June 9, 2012 at 4:36 pm

    Mike, I have a few friends that need their shrubs pruned, how long can I wait to plant the cuttings for rooting?

    Reply
  30. elizabeth says

    June 9, 2012 at 8:30 am

    My burning bush died this year after blooming for ten years???

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 6:54 pm

      Elizabeth, that’s really odd. I check for mouse or rabbitt damage near the base of the plant. During the winter rabbits and mice will eat the bark off of burning bush and they can kill the plant if they completely girdle the plant. Look for missing bark down low.

      Reply
  31. Tonya Hutchinson says

    June 8, 2012 at 7:57 pm

    Mike, I enjoy reading all of your litrature,e-mails,etc! I bought a Japanese Barberry…a real pretty yellowish color? We had some really hot weather and it seemed to just dry up! I brought it inside for awhile & then planted it outside & watered it really well. I had been watering it before also of course! Is there anything else I should do to insure it’s survival?
    Thank you! Oh and I found out on the internet that it gets berries on it!

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 6:57 pm

      Tonya, many of the yellow barberries are sensitive to intense sun. Keep it watered well and if you can plant it in a location that gets afternoon shade that would be great.

      Reply
  32. Jane says

    June 8, 2012 at 5:56 pm

    Mike,
    What is your method for propagating roses? I would like to get some new plants in the ground this summer or fall.
    Thanks for sharing your vast knowledge!

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 6:58 pm

      Jane, I’d do the roses in a flat of sand and stick them in a white plastic bag just like I showed in the video. Remind in the fall to show you a winter technique for doing them as well.

      Reply
  33. Jenny says

    June 8, 2012 at 5:35 pm

    Thank you so much you do inspire me I just love when I hear from you and watch your videos. I just recently broke off a piece from a cherry tree and have put it in water , and am going to try to put some rooting powder powder and plant it…wish me luck!!

    Reply
  34. Marie says

    June 8, 2012 at 3:20 pm

    Mike, I have been looking for rooting powder for a year with no success. Can you give me a source? Thanks

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 6:59 pm

      Marie, I’m sure you can find either powder or DipnGrow liquid on line. I’d be amazed if amazon.com doesn’t have some listed.

      Reply
    • cheril says

      June 9, 2012 at 10:55 pm

      I got RootOne a walmart.

      Reply
  35. ME says

    June 8, 2012 at 12:37 pm

    Mike,
    Thanks for the informative video… you might speak less & give all of this information quicker with less Fluff ?
    I was anxious for only the Facts .

    M.E.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 6:59 pm

      Yeah, me too.

      Reply
    • Kathy says

      August 4, 2015 at 1:38 pm

      I think there was just enough information to communicate well. I feel confident that I understand the process. Thank you for your effort!

      Reply
  36. Teresa W says

    June 8, 2012 at 11:55 am

    Mike,
    I have tried to use rooting rose cuttings with your soft cutting method and it seemed to work great for the first few weeks but them I began to see black mold inside the bag and the plants seemed to begin dying after that. What did I do wrong?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:00 pm

      Teresa, open the bag and give them some air, or apply a general fungicide. Also use sand as the rooting medium.

      Reply
  37. Beth Sewell says

    June 8, 2012 at 11:21 am

    I have forsythia cuttings that I am going to start with. The only other plant I have a lot of is hydrangea. Will forsythia root quickly. Can you help me with buyers? Do you know of buyers that will buy 500 at one time? I suppose my other option is to grow them until next spring and then sell them for $5 or so. Would you put them in a 6″ pot after they root or let them grow directly in the ground? If I decide to sell the rootings, should I wrap them in damp newspaper or plastic and ship them overnight?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:03 pm

      Beth, if you want to grow plants for profit I urge you to get my Backyard Growing System. http://freeplants.com/wanted.htm, trying to grow for profit without my system will be an exercise in futility. I love to help people who want to garden at home, for themselves, and I really like helping people that want to grow for profit. But for that I have to charge. That’s the only way I can afford to give away the amount of information and tens and thousands of hours of my time doing so. Get the system. You’ll be glad you got start now rather than later. Plus, if you have the system now you won’t make all the mistakes that people make without it.

      Reply
  38. Patricia Blumhagen says

    June 8, 2012 at 10:42 am

    Mike, I would like to do cuttings of my lavender plants and Roadendum (purple flowers).
    Where do I leave them after planted? What type of soil is best? Sun or shade. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:14 pm

      Patricia, use sand and place them in the shade.

      Reply
  39. Jennifer Wright says

    June 8, 2012 at 10:26 am

    Hi Mike. I’ve been reading articles & watching your videos for a week or two now, & I am super excited to get started. I recently moved & I see a gold mine at this new place. Shrubs & trees everywhere! The problem that I’m having is identifying these plants. I have been taking pictures. Do you have any resources that you can lead me to for plant identification? I will be ordering your System asap! Thanks & God bless. I appreciate the wealth of information that you are offering! Jennifer

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:05 pm

      Jennifer, you need my system before you get started. I won’t go into detail here, but there is a lot that you don’t know, which is why I make the system available.

      Reply
      • Jennifer Wright says

        June 14, 2012 at 8:45 pm

        Mike, I bought your system & you’re right, boy do I have a lot to learn! No worries mate, on to plan B! Don’t focus on the obstacles but focus on the opportunities! On a serious note, I’m very excited. Thanks Mike for what you are doing.

        Reply
  40. lisa says

    June 8, 2012 at 9:46 am

    I would like to start rooting some cuttings but a few questions first,
    1. I have a small green plastic covered green house-would it be ok to put cutting on the shelves in that instead of garbage bags?
    2. I have a barn that is very humid but no light will the plants survive in there either for summer or to store threw the winter (not heated)?
    Thank you for your time!

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:11 pm

      Lisa, I greenhouse can be way too hot in the winter and the barn would be too cold during the winter. Once rooted the cuttings will be fine outside for the winter. In my system you’ll see in videos how I store my outside all winter long. http://freeplants.com/wanted.htm

      Reply
  41. Jeff says

    June 8, 2012 at 9:18 am

    This is my second year gardening. I am 59.
    One day I planted some pole bean seeds and went away for 4 days. When I came back they
    were bursting forth from the soil. This is to refer to your comment today on the email you sent. I have already started looking around for cuttings to start. I started 8000 transplants for a small grower inside my house this year. It was easy and my wife could do it while she watched tv.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:12 pm

      8,000 in your house! I love that kind of determination. Good for you and the best of success to you.

      Reply
  42. Cecil says

    June 8, 2012 at 9:18 am

    Mike It looks like I have drounded my sago palm. The 1st bloom started and too much water has killed the bloom. What can I do to get it too bloom again? The sago is 7yrs old and about 5ft tall. Thanks Cecil

    Reply
  43. Patricia Elliott says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:48 am

    Mike – Is there any way you can put this in written instructions with pictures? I can not ever get your video’s to open up so I can watch.

    Thanks,
    Trish Elliott

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:13 pm

      Trish,
      All of these tips are spelled out in my book, Easy Plant Propagation at http://freeplants.com. Or you can go to the library and watch the videos at http://mikesbackyardnursery.com/

      Reply
  44. Carol says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:35 am

    I’ve read that cuttings on some plants should be taken in the fall, some in the spring, due to their flowering and fruiting habits. Do you have a chart that shows when cuttings from each type of bush or tree should be taken? I am specifically interested in lilac, lavender, crepe myrtle, rosemary, wiegela, grape, raspberry, blackberry, and roses. I would like for the “mother” plant to continue to produce flowers. I appreciate your practical approach, and enjoy your videos.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:14 pm

      Carol, my book is a great resource and there’s lots of info at http://freeplants.com

      Reply
  45. John Keeler says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:35 am

    Mike: Instead of using pencils for support, I would use wire coat hangers. Cut to desired length and bent into a U shape. A spot of duct tape along the top edge of the container will secure the wire so that it does not move.

    Reply
  46. Char says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:34 am

    Mike, I have a new Japanese red maple that was either attacked by a rabbit or some 2 legged critter. A whole branch was broken off. Can I root this in water and plant? Thanks

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:15 pm

      Char, I highly doubt it. Japanese maples are very difficult to root.

      Reply
  47. Fr Hill says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:25 am

    Mike,

    Is it ok to overwinter in greenhouse in zone 4 to keep them growing or do they need winter rest ?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 9, 2012 at 7:15 pm

      Father, plants need to go complete dormant and rest for the winter. Great question.

      Reply
  48. Amanda Sefton says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:10 am

    But why do you plant them in sand rather than compost?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 16, 2012 at 11:11 am

      Amanda, you can use compost, but it could rot the stems. With sand you have less chance of the stems rotting as they root.

      Reply
  49. Raven says

    June 8, 2012 at 8:06 am

    Is there a difference in the propagation trays you have places to buy them and you have instructions for building them. Is it the same thing just which ever one you want to do?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 16, 2012 at 11:12 am

      Raven, the propagation tray that you use makes no difference as long as they have good drainage through the bottom.

      Reply
  50. Marva says

    June 8, 2012 at 7:42 am

    Mike, thanks to you I have re-gained my interest in gardening. I live in the tropics and for Corpus Christi yesterday I planted some vegetables and flowering plants. It felt really good to get my hands in the dirt. Thank you Mike for all the helpful info and videos. GOD bless.

    Reply
  51. david says

    June 5, 2012 at 12:40 pm

    When or how do I know that the cuttings are ready to plant?

    David

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 5, 2012 at 8:41 pm

      David, good question. Softwood cuttings are too soft when they simply limp over right after being cut. They need to be rigid enough to stand up on their own, even though some, depending on the plant might droop over then stand up later. Rule of thumb is 6 weeks after the plants first leaf out in the spring. Take your cuttings six weeks after the first sign of leaves on the trees and shrubs.

      Reply
      • david says

        June 12, 2012 at 11:59 pm

        I mean, when are they ready to remove from the sand? I don’t see how to determine if they have any roots yet? If I remove them from the sand, and they haven’t rooted, what then?

        I need to know when they are ready to remove from the cutting box into the soil.

        David

        Reply
        • beginwithaseed says

          September 13, 2013 at 9:29 am

          They are ready to be planted into their own pots or into the ground when they’ve rooted… Two or three “root shoots” appear. In theory, you could transplant your cuttings as soon as roots appear… but it’s not worth the risk in my opinion. Just be careful that you dont break off any of the roots when transplanting. The cutting will continue to root in it’s new location. The ‘root shoots’ are easily broken off. “Set roots” aren’t as delicate so perhaps waiting until those appear would be the absolute best/safest option.

          Reply
  52. Michael says

    April 2, 2012 at 3:03 pm

    Hi,
    I want to propagate the Japanese tulip magnolias. Do you have an easy method to do this?

    Thanks,
    Michael

    Reply
    • Mike says

      April 2, 2012 at 5:15 pm

      Michael, Just them in here as softwood cuttings in June. http://www.freeplants.com/homemade-plant-propagation.htm

      Reply
  53. Sandy says

    February 24, 2012 at 2:10 pm

    Great video! I am echoing the questions of others. How long do you leave the cuttings in the plastic pan covered with white garbage bad? Additionally, I enjoyed the video your friend made about rooting rose cutting. I would like to know how long to leave them in the wet newspapers that are sealed up in plastic bags. Thank you in advance for response. 🙂

    Reply
  54. Russ Beeman says

    December 6, 2011 at 9:19 pm

    Mike,

    I have about 6 Korean Spice Viburnum from which I would like to make cuttings and future plants. Could you tell me how to do so, PLEASE!??????

    I have been a master gardener for over 30yrs and do not have any experience in making such cuttings. Korean Spice plants have been very hard to find in my area (Lansing, MI). I would appreciate your wisdom and assistance.

    Russ Beeman

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:44 am

      Russ, use the method I explain in this video, then for winter make sure you protect them. They are easy enough to root, but getting them through the first winter is a bit more difficult. But that’s really only true for some of fragrant Viburnums.

      Reply
  55. Mary Givens says

    November 8, 2011 at 10:14 am

    I really enjoyed watching how to root some plants video it helped me with a lot of questions I had.Thank you so much.

    Reply
  56. paula says

    November 2, 2011 at 4:40 am

    you are my new best friend. thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  57. mike says

    August 14, 2011 at 10:04 am

    Hi Mike,

    Just getting started watching your videos. Im in Montville just a few minutes from you. I was wondering how long you leave the cuttings in the bag, and when you can put them straight into pots.

    Thanks for the help.

    Mike B.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:42 am

      Mike, as soon as they are rooted you can transplant them carefully into a bed. Give them several weeks to full root before you disturb them. I’d say at least 6 to 8 weeks. Water daily or every other day for two weeks or so, the roots will be shallow and close to the surface.

      Reply
  58. Harriette Hester says

    July 21, 2011 at 9:44 pm

    Thanks Mike, You are an awesome person!!!! You are an asset to the human race for all the things you do for the planet earth.

    Reply
  59. SecretGarden says

    July 21, 2011 at 2:56 pm

    I’ve kept two Rose of Sharon cuttings alive over 2 winters now. They’re in 8″pots and each is about 11″-16″ high with 3 branches. I want to plant them outside and close together to make a larger shrub. A) Should I do this (plant close)? and B) WHEN. it’s 97F right now? Wait ’til autumn? I’m in Mass., if that matters.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:41 am

      The sooner you transplant things into the ground the better as far as I’m concerned as long as you are not cutting or breaking roots during the growing season. Just slide them out of the pot into the ground and they’ll be fine.

      Reply
    • Jerry says

      July 10, 2012 at 4:25 pm

      Location location location- I live in central NC, Rose of Sharon are like Kudzu down here- they grow everywhere I look.. I have several mature plants in my border in excess of 10′ tall and 3′ in diameter. They are hardy and grow little Sharons everywhere.

      Reply
  60. violeta says

    July 11, 2011 at 6:10 pm

    hi mike
    is it ok to put the cuttings straight into a pot with soil after using the rooting powder,as i have seen in some videos?
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:39 am

      Violeta, that can be done, especially with hardwood cuttings done in the late fall early winter. But softwood cuttings done during the summer would fail for sure because they need an extremely humid environment.

      Reply
  61. teresa says

    July 11, 2011 at 1:47 pm

    how you winter those plantings?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:38 am

      Teresa, my cuttings spend the winter outside. If they are in flats or in a raised bed I cover them with white, not clear plastic. Never use clear plastic to over winter dormant plants.

      Reply
      • Barb Lewis says

        June 8, 2012 at 9:39 pm

        Mike,
        I have more cuttings than I know what to do with in the fall, but am having a tough time overwintering them…. tried partial burial, covering with leaves, etc but many still died off… if they get covered with plastic, don’t they need water of some sort?
        The ones that survive are SUPER hardy tho.

        Reply
        • Mike says

          June 9, 2012 at 6:55 pm

          Barb, all they need for the winter is water. If it snows or rains that’s fine. But if it’s dry they need a little water. If they are rotting the growing medium is holding too much water. That’s why I root everything in coarse sand.

          Reply
  62. Sissy says

    July 11, 2011 at 11:33 am

    I just love your information!!! thank you a bunches!!!

    Reply
  63. Kickylee says

    July 11, 2011 at 9:45 am

    Thank you for all the help!
    But the burning bush? It is one of the most invasive plants there is… 🙂

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:37 am

      Kickylee, I’ve been working with Burning Bush in landscapes for about 40 years and in that time I’ve run across about two chance burning bush seedlings. Around here it is one of the least invasive plants that I know of. I can name dozens of others that sprout seedlings everywhere.

      Reply
  64. Julia says

    July 11, 2011 at 9:44 am

    Thank you for the wonerful info,very well explained.

    Reply
  65. Mike Hughes says

    July 10, 2011 at 11:52 pm

    I want to root Blueberries and Grapes. Having trouble with the blueberry cuttings dying on me.

    Mike Hughes

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:36 am

      Mike, try this method, it works pretty good.

      Reply
      • Ernest Fields says

        June 17, 2012 at 12:27 pm

        What method, you didn’t give one. I’m having the same problem.

        Reply
  66. lelene says

    July 10, 2011 at 3:53 pm

    i’m guessing you will start to see new growth, when it has rooted.

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:35 am

      Lelene, yes, that’s one sign. But you can slide the cuttings out and check for roots. You don’t want to check them all the time, but after about three weeks you do any harm pulling a cutting out. If you feel resistence the cutting is rooting, don’t pull it out. If it is just starting to root you’ll see tiny roots, just slide the cutting back into the sand.

      Reply
      • Barbara says

        June 19, 2012 at 8:09 pm

        Will this method work with Acuba? I’ve been trying to start a cutting for years.

        Reply
  67. CARROLLE says

    July 10, 2011 at 1:26 pm

    Mike , where do I find those cheap easy to build misting trays you had mentioned ?

    Reply
    • Mike says

      June 8, 2012 at 6:33 am

      Carrolle, if you have my http://freeplants.com/wanted.htm you’ll find all the supply sources in the wholeslae directory that comes with my system. Or you can just go to the dollar store and buy dish pans and drill holes in the bottom.

      Reply

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