Taking semi-ripe cuttings

Taking semi-ripe cuttings is a common method of propagating shrubs and climbers. This technique involves selecting portions of the plant that are neither too young (softwood) nor too old (hardwood), but are in a semi-mature state. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to take semi-ripe cuttings:

Timing

Semi-ripe cuttings are typically taken in late summer to early autumn, when the new growth is starting to mature but is still somewhat flexible. This is usually around July to September, depending on your climate.

Selecting Cuttings

Choose healthy, disease-free branches from the current season’s growth. Look for stems that have partially matured, meaning they are not too soft and easily bendable, but also not too woody and hard.

Preparation

Using clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors, cut a section of the stem that is about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long. Make sure the cutting has at least two pairs of leaves.

Remove any flowers, buds, or lower leaves from the bottom pair. This helps prevent moisture loss and encourages root development.

Planting

Fill small pots or containers with a well-draining potting mix. You can use a mix of multi-purpose compost and perlite or horticultural grit.

Insert the prepared cuttings into the potting mix, burying at least one node (the point where leaves are attached) in the mix. Space them out evenly, several centimetres apart.

Gently firm the soil around the cutting to ensure good soil-to-stem contact.

Make a label

You need to remember what you’ve planted and when! Add the name and date so you have a reference when you need to heck whether the cuttings have rooted.

Care

Mist the cuttings or use stand the pot in a tray of water so the compost is properly moistened.

Rooting

Over the next 8 weeks or so, the cuttings should develop roots. You can gently tug on the cuttings to feel for resistance, indicating root growth.

Transplanting

Once the cuttings have developed a good root system, typically after several months, you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.

Remember that the success rate of semi-ripe cuttings can vary depending on the plant species and environmental conditions. Patience is key, as it may take some time for the cuttings to establish roots and start growing.