Vegetative propagation means growing a whole plant from a part of a plant. It can be used for all plants except for annuals and biennials. Stems, roots and even single leaves can be used, depending on the species.

The advantage of this method is the offspring will be identical to the parent species, without the genetic variation you see with seed from a plant. It is also the only way to produce plants that do not produce a viable seed

Division- cutting or pulling clump forming plants into sections, each with roots and shoots- is the quickest and easiest way to propagate herbaceous perennials, and gives large flowering in a short time. It also reinvigorates them.. Most can be divided in spring or autumn. Division also works well with plants that form storage organs – bulbs, corms, or tubers below the ground, such as Jerusalem artichokes and daffodils.

Stem Cuttings- Both tips and sections of stem can be put in pots of compost or into the soil to develop their own roots While all cuttings root faster with bottom hea provided by a heat mat or heated bench, but most do not need it. Shelter is only necessary for cuttings from soft growth that would dry up quickly and fail if exposed to the outdoors.

 

While these cuttings need a humid environment it is important they do not become waterlogged or the soft tissue will rot. The compost you use must be well-drained, opened up with grit or sand. Hormone rooting powders are not regarded as a suitable organic additive.

Softwood cuttings- are non woody shoots taken primarily from perennials and tender bedding plants taken spring and early summer while they are producing strong fleshy growth. Some of the easiest plants to propagate in this group are coleus, geraniums, and catmints. These cuttings need ample heat, moisture and light and must be started undercover.


Semi-ripe cuttings- are taken just as the current season’s growth starts to harden at the base. They are useful for all types of woody plants, including small shrubs such as lavenders and small boxwood. Conifers and many climbers also root well from semi-ripe cuttings. These are usually from deciduous species in early to late summer. Evergreen species root better if taken early in summer.


Hardwood cuttings- are taken from trees and shrubs when dormant. When taken from ready-rooting, hardy plants such as dogwood, currant, gooseberry, and willow need very little attention. Prepare a nursery bed for them outdoors in a cool, shaded area. These cuttings are usually taken in late winter.