Take Basal Cuttings: A Beginner's Guide to Propagating Plants

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As a plant lover, you might want to grow your collection without spending too much money. Or perhaps, you want to save a beloved plant from dying. One way to achieve both goals is by taking basal cuttings. This propagation method is easy, inexpensive, and suitable for many types of plants. In this article, we will guide you through the process of taking basal cuttings and increasing your plant population.

What are basal cuttings?

Basal cuttings are stem sections that come from the base or bottom part of the plant. Unlike other types of cuttings, such as tip cuttings or leaf cuttings, basal cuttings often include a portion of the roots, which makes them more likely to root and grow into new plants. Basal cuttings can be taken from various kinds of plants, including herbaceous perennials, shrubs, and trees.

When is the best time to take basal cuttings?

The best time to take basal cuttings depends on the plant species and its growing habits. However, as a general rule, it is recommended to take basal cuttings in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and producing new shoots. Avoid taking basal cuttings in winter or late fall when the plant is dormant or preparing for dormancy. Also, avoid taking basal cuttings during hot and dry weather, as they might wilt or fail to root.

How to take basal cuttings?

The process of taking basal cuttings is straightforward and requires only a few tools and materials:

Sharp and clean pruners or scissors
Clean and moist potting soil or rooting medium
Clean and sharp knife (optional)
Rooting hormone powder or gel (optional)
Covering material such as plastic bags, domes, or jars

Here are the steps to take basal cuttings:

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Choose a healthy and vigorous plant that has several stems growing from the base.
Select a stem that is about 4-6 inches long and has no flowers or buds. The stem should be firm, green, and not woody.
If the stem has leaves, remove the lower leaves, leaving only one or two pairs of leaves at the top.
If the stem has multiple nodes, make a clean slanting cut below the lowest node, using a sharp and clean pruner or scissors. If the stem has only one node, skip this step.
If desired, dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder or gel, tapping off the excess.
Insert the cut end of the stem into moist potting soil or rooting medium, burying at least one node or joint under the soil. Firm the soil around the stem to eliminate any air pockets.
Cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag, dome, or jar to create a humid environment. Place it in a warm and bright location but away from direct sunlight.
Check the cutting regularly, misting it if necessary. After a few weeks, gently tug the stem to check if it has rooted. If there is resistance, it means the cutting has rooted, and you can remove the covering material and transplant the new plant into a larger pot or outdoors.

What are some tips for success?

Although taking basal cuttings is a relatively easy and forgiving method of propagation, here are some tips that can increase your chances of success:

Choose healthy and disease-free plants.
Take basal cuttings in the morning when the plant is turgid and hydrated.
Make clean and slanted cuts to maximize the surface area for rooting.
Avoid damaging the stem or the roots while handling the cutting.
Keep the cutting in a humid but well-ventilated environment to prevent fungal growth.
Avoid exposing the cutting to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Be patient and wait for at least 2-3 weeks before checking the rooting progress.

Learning how to take basal cuttings is an excellent skill for every gardener or plant enthusiast. By propagating your plants through basal cuttings, you can save money, expand your collection, and share your plants with friends and family. Remember to follow the basic principles of plant care and to enjoy the process of nurturing your new plants.

Propagation, gardening, houseplants, self-sufficiency