How to Propagate Hydrangea Cuttings

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Step-by-step instructions for taking softwood cuttings from hydrangea plants to root them and grow new plants.

Total Time: 30

Cost: $20

Take cutting in morning when plant is well hydrated.
Choose stem—pencil-thick or more—with at least 4 leaf sets (counting down from tip) and no buds or flowers.
Clean cutting blades with rubbing alcohol before and after use.
Cut one inch below 4th leaf set nodes (where leaves join stem).
1 Hydrangea
Use your cutting to create several plants.
For each new plant you want a stem with nodes (leaves removed) and top stems with leaves (can be cut in half to reduce demand on plant).
Dip stem in rooting hormone powder, tap off excess, and plant in potting mix burying bare nodes.
It's fine to root several cuttings in one 8-inch pot, placing them around the edges.
Water thoroughly and place in clear tote. Use lid or partial lid if humidity is low.
Water as needed. Grow in warm, sunny location out of direct sun. Watch for signs of new growth in 4-6 weeks.
Transplant to pots or plant in garden if enough time to establish more roots before winter.