A six-inch length of non-flowering new growth, stripped of all but its two topmost leaves, is all it takes to turn one hydrangea into several. Cuttings are the easiest and cheapest way to propagate the shrub: keep them shaded, watered but never waterlogged and frost-free, and they go into the ground in spring.
In August, when the shrub is blooming, you will have the chance to prepare new plants from ones you already have!
The best period begins in August and continues until the end of September.
Hydrangea cuttings can be taken over a long stretch of the growing year, and the stem you use changes with the season. Here is what each window offers.
| When to take | What to cut | Why choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Early summer to midsummer | Vigorous new growth that has not borne flowers | An early start, with success rates already very high |
| Late summer to early autumn | Stem tips about 8 inches (20 cm) long from the strongest shoots | The best period of the year for rooting hydrangea |
| Mid to late autumn | Stems taken off during the autumn trim | Turns prunings you already have into new plants |
Whichever window you use, taking several stems at once raises the odds that some will root.
Delicately remove all the leaves except for the two topmost leaves.
Water regularly but not too much, or the young roots will drown.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
