Softwood Cuttings

Propagation

Softwood cuttings are made from fresh, flexible new growth and can produce new shrubs, climbers and herbaceous plants quickly. They root best while shoots are actively growing, before stems become woody. Clean cuts, a free-draining medium and humid but airy conditions are the essentials for reliable rooting.

How to do it

In the morning, choose healthy non-flowering shoots about 8 to 12 cm long. Put cut material into a clean bag or container out of sun while you work. With clean secateurs, trim each cutting just below a leaf joint, or node, and remove lower leaves without damaging the stem. Keep two or three leaves at the top, reducing very large leaves by half if they lose water quickly. Dip the base in generic hormone rooting powder if desired, then insert it around 2 to 3 cm deep in moist, gritty peat-free cuttings compost. Firm gently, label and water. Cover loosely in a propagator or clear cover, ventilating daily. Pot on once rooted.

When to do it

Take softwood cuttings from late spring through summer, when new shoots are long enough to handle but still bend easily. Choose a cool morning and avoid taking material during drought or heat. Rooting is usually quickest in bright, indirect light with gentle warmth, rather than direct sunshine on a hot windowsill.

Tips

Flowering shoots divert energy from rooting, so choose non-flowering material where possible. Keep foliage humid but do not seal cuttings into stagnant, dripping air. Remove dead leaves immediately. Tugging is not a good rooting test: wait for fresh top growth or roots at drainage holes before potting on, then harden plants off gradually.

Softwood Cuttings: frequently asked questions

How does softwood cuttings work?

In the morning, choose healthy non-flowering shoots about 8 to 12 cm long.

When should I do softwood cuttings?

Take softwood cuttings from late spring through summer, when new shoots are long enough to handle but still bend easily.

What are some tips for softwood cuttings?

Flowering shoots divert energy from rooting, so choose non-flowering material where possible.

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General guidance for UK gardens. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.