Part 2: Propagation by stem cuttings

Hardwood cuttings

Once you have made your cuttings, dip the ends into rooting hormone and stick them into trays or pots of moist compost or soil, or directly into a pre-prepared area of ground such as the end of a raised vegetable bed, or an area of a flower bed which has been improved with added compost and weeded.

Hardwood cuttings can remain somewhere cool such as outside or in an unheated greenhouse or cold frame.

Ensure they remain weed free and do not dry out.

Every few weeks give the cuttings a gentle tug to see if roots have developed.

When the roots are well established the cuttings can be potted up or moved to their final location in the garden.

Semi-ripe and softwood cuttings

Once you have made your cuttings, dip the ends into rooting hormone and stick them into trays or pots of moist compost.

Place them somewhere bright but not in full sun, such as in a shaded greenhouse or on a north facing windowsill, and cover with a clear propagator lid or put them in a clear plastic bag.

Every day, lift the lid or open the bag to exchange the air inside, mist with water and reseal.

Every few days, give the cuttings a gentle tug to see if their roots are developing.

Once they have rooted, the propagator lid or bag can be removed and the cuttings can begin to wean, that is to get used to a cooler and less humid environment.

Once the roots are well established, the cuttings can be potted up and grown on until they are big enough for sale or for use in the garden.