Flower Propagation: Multiply Your Plants for Free

The Art of Propagation

Propagation allows you to create new plants from existing ones—expanding your garden without spending money, sharing favorites with friends, and preserving cherished varieties.

Division: The Easiest Method

Many perennials benefit from regular division, which keeps plants vigorous and provides new plants:

• Best candidates: Hostas, daylilies, irises, asters, phlox
• Timing: Early spring or fall when plants are dormant
• Method: Dig entire clump, separate into sections with roots attached, replant immediately

Stem Cuttings

Many flowers root easily from stem cuttings:

1. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems
2. Remove lower leaves and dip cut end in rooting hormone
3. Insert in moist potting mix or perlite
4. Cover with plastic to maintain humidity
5. Keep in bright, indirect light until roots develop

Layering

For plants that are difficult to root from cuttings, layering keeps the stem attached to the parent plant while roots form:

• Bend a flexible stem to touch the ground
• Wound the underside slightly and dust with rooting hormone
• Bury the wounded section, leaving the tip exposed
• Anchor with a wire pin or stone
• Separate from parent once roots establish

Collecting Seeds

Allow some flowers to go to seed for free plants next year. Collect seed pods when dry, store in labeled envelopes in a cool, dark place. Note that hybrid varieties may not come true from seed.

Success Tips

• Always use clean, sharp tools
• Work quickly to prevent moisture loss
• Label everything—you'll forget what's what!
• Be patient—some plants root quickly, others take months