• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide

Propagate Perennials with Softwood Stem Cuttings

Increase your heirloom perennial plant collection with softwood stem cuttings. 

Try this technique on non-patented chrysanthemums, balloon flower, penstemon, phlox and salvia.  Use a sharp knife to cut 3- to 6-inch-long pieces from firm mature non-woody stem tips. Remove the lowest leaf and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone labeled for use on herbaceous plants.

Select a small container with drainage holes and fill with a quality potting mix.  Punch a small hole in the planting medium, then insert the cutting.  Gently tamp the potting mix to tuck the cutting in place.

Water thoroughly and place the potted cutting in a plastic bag.  Set in a bright location out of direct sunlight. Once the cuttings produce new growth you can move them into a protected spot in the garden. Wait until they are well rooted to move it to its permanent location.

A bit more information:  Avoid propagating patented plants that are protected by patent laws.  These are designed to protect the investment of the breeder. Respecting these laws allows companies to continue breeding improvements into plants for all of us to enjoy in the future.

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars


Feb. 14-16, 2025
NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show
West Allis, WI

Feb. 19, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Strategies for Managing Invasive Plants

Register here

Feb. 26, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Create a Beautiful Shade Garden

Register here

Feb. 27, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
How to Select Rain Garden Plants

Register here

March 12, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Grow Pollinator-friendly Spring and Summer Flowering Bulbs

Register here

March 19, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Register here


March 22, 23, 29, 30, 2025
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, WI

March 26, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Succession Planting & Crop Rotation

Register here

March 27, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Rain Garden Q & A

Register here

April 2, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Container Gardens for Sun & Shade
Register here


April 10, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Reinvigorate Your Rain Garden
Register here


May 7, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Vertical Gardening
Register here


May 15, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
7 Steps to Managing Water on Your Property

Register here

June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds

Register here

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter to Win 3 Collections of Longfield Gardens
Dahlia Bulbs

ENTER NOW