By Carla Burgess | March 2008

• Introduction
• Identifying growth stages
• Growing medium & Rooting aids
• Taking and sticking the cuttings
• Tending the cuttings
• Tips & Tricks & Resources
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Tending the cuttings

If you root cuttings indoors, place containers in a relatively warm location underneath fluorescent lighting, if possible (fixtures or “shop lights” with bulbs are readily available at hardware stores). During the growing season, cuttings may be rooted outdoors. Cover containers and place in a location out of direct sunlight. If your modified greenhouse becomes overheated, cuttings will perish. Water your medium if necessary, or mist cuttings with a spritzer or spray of the hose. You should see a little “fog” from the humidity inside. Remove the cover only if necessary to vent excess heat or to add water.

Wait at least three weeks before disturbing the cuttings. Most cuttings will root in several weeks to a couple of months. You’ll know that roots have formed if you feel a bit of resistance when you give the cutting a gentle tug. Pot the rooted cuttings individually and apply a dilute fertilizer initially. Pamper your young plants, and wait for a season or two before transplanting them in the garden.