A cutting is a piece of stem, leaf, or root taken from a parent plant and encouraged to form its own roots. The method produces clones that match the original plant exactly. Softwood cuttings from new growth root quickly in spring and summer; hardwood cuttings taken in winter suit many shrubs and trees.

Success depends on moisture, warmth, and cleanliness. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone if desired, and insert the cutting into a free-draining medium. Cover with a clear dome or plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots form. Once new growth appears, the young plant can be potted on.

Many houseplants, herbs, and ornamental shrubs propagate readily this way. It is an economical method for increasing stock without buying new plants. Timing and the health of the parent plant influence results more than expensive equipment.

• Piece of plant used to grow a new one
• Produces genetically identical offspring
• Works with stems, leaves, or roots
• Requires humidity until roots develop