How to make cuttings from a hydrangea shrub with steps

Preparing hydrangea cuttings is the easiest and cheapest way to propagate hydrangea.

In August, when the shrub is blooming, you will have the chance to prepare new plants from ones you already have!

When to prepare hydrangea cuttings?

The best period begins in August and continues until the end of September.

You can actually use pruned hydrangea stems from your fall trimming, too.
But you can also start as early as June-July, because success rates are also very high.

Hydrangea cutting step-by-step

Chose one of the most vigorous stems from your hydrangea: new growth that has not born flowers.
Cut the stem about 8 inches (20 cm) from its tip.
You may cut several at once, this will increase your success rate.
Keep only the middle part of the stem – about 6 inches (15 cm) – removing the head and cutting just above a pair of leaves.
Delicately remove all the leaves except for the two topmost leaves.
Dip this portion in water for a few minutes, and then dip it in a mix called rooting agent that can be purchased in a horticulture store.
Cuttings may still succeed without this rooting agent, but using it will increase your success rate.
Plant the cutting(s) in special cutting soil mix, or a mix of soil mix and sand.
Space each cutting around 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) apart.
Stake each cutting to keep it vertical.
Place your cuttings outdoors in the shade.
Water regularly but not too much, or the young roots will drown.
Keep your cuttings in a cool, dry, ventilated place which does not freeze over the winter.
You can plant them in the ground come spring.

Read also about hydrangea:

Other techniques to prepare cuttings

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to take hydrangea cuttings?

The best period to prepare hydrangea cuttings begins in August and continues until the end of September. You can also start as early as June-July, as success rates are very high during this time.

How do you propagate hydrangeas from cuttings?

Cut 8-inch stems from vigorous new growth, keep only the middle 6-inch section, remove all leaves except the top two, dip in water then rooting agent, and plant in cutting soil mix spaced 2-4 inches apart. Keep cuttings in a shaded, cool, ventilated place and water regularly without overwatering until spring, when they can be planted in the ground.

Does using rooting agent improve hydrangea cutting success?

Using rooting agent will increase your success rate when propagating hydrangea cuttings. While cuttings may still succeed without it, the article recommends dipping the prepared stem in rooting agent purchased from a horticulture store.

How much should you water hydrangea cuttings?

Water hydrangea cuttings regularly but not too much, as overwatering can cause the young roots to drown. They should be kept in a cool, dry, ventilated place with consistent moisture without being waterlogged.

What is the cheapest way to propagate hydrangeas?

Preparing hydrangea cuttings is the easiest and cheapest way to propagate hydrangeas, allowing you to create new plants from ones you already have using pruned stems.

Images: 123RF: Mariia Boiko

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