By cutting sections of plant stem, and encouraging it to grow roots, you are making an exact genetic clone of the parent plant. This means that the propagule (cutting) will grow up to be exactly the same as the parent plant genetically, but environmental influences such as pruning could make it appear to be different as it grows.

The stronger and healthy the parent plant is, the stronger and healthier your cuttings will be as they grow, so it is essential to choose your propagation material carefully and ensure that it is free from pests and diseases.

There are three main types of stem cutting: Hardwood, semi-rip and softwood.