Overview

Planting cuttings is an inexpensive way to populate your garden. Cuttings given as gifts also hold special sentimental value and remind you of the giver for many years. Cuttings from plants grow well in light potting soil or peat moss. Most varieties require time to root before being planted directly into the ground. Ask your friends or neighbors to snip off a few branches of their favorite plant for an eclectic garden.

Step 1

Cut a branch 1/2 inch in diameter just below the leaf node. Be sure the cutting is healthy, less than 1 year old and has at least three leaf nodes.

Step 2

Discard any flowers and dormant buds. This will direct the plant's energy toward growing roots instead of maintaining flowers.

Step 3

Strip all leaves off the lower half of the stem which will eventually be buried in soil.

Step 4

Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone. Rooting hormones come in liquid, powder and gel form and can be purchased at most local nurseries.

Step 5

Add equal parts perlite and peat moss to a medium-size pot. Leave 2 to 3 inches of space between the rim of the pot and the soil.

Step 6

Use your finger to make a small indention in the soil. Place the bottom two to three nodes of the cutting below the soil level and cover with dirt.

Step 7

Pour water over the soil until water runs out of the bottom of the pot. In order to keep the soil moist and avoid standing water, use a spray bottle to mist plants on a daily basis.