Root cuttings are the key method of propagation for a variety of herbaceous perennial plants during late autumn and early winter whilst dormant. They are used to propagate plants that will produce new shoots from the roots.
- It is best if you choose vigorous clumps by lifting the plant and washing the roots. It is best to select roots that are the thickness of around 1cm, cutting it close to the crown.
- Remove a third of the root system from your plant and replace the original plant back into the ground. Each root should then be cut into 5cm lengths with a horizontal cut at the upper end and an angled cut at the lower end.
- Ensure you have filled your containers with some cuttings compost and insert the root cuttings so that the horizontal end if just below the surface of the compost. Water your roots lightly and place in a cold frame.
- Root cuttings can be slow to develop so you will need to wait until the following spring to pot up each individual cutting to show signs of growth and are well-rooted. Grow plants on and plant out in the following year.
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