How to propagate hydrangea cuttings - step by step instructions for beginners

Cuttings are the easiest way to propagate hydrangeas of any kind. Lignified cuttings take root poorly, so it is better to use annual green shoots. In the article we will tell you in detail how to grow a spectacular hydrangea from a cutting.

Hydrangea can be propagated by cuttings both in spring and summer. But the most suitable time for this business is the middle of summer (shortly before flowering). Therefore, it is recommended to cut the cuttings from the bush at the moment when the buds have just begun to tie on the plant. But at the same time, it is important not to reach the lignification of the shoots, otherwise the cuttings will take root with difficulty.

Shoots are best cut in the early morning. So that they do not wither, keep the hydrangea cuttings in water until cuttings.

What should be hydrangea cuttings?

For cuttings of hydrangeas in spring and summer, it is necessary to cut off the top of a young lateral shoot with 2-3 pairs of leaves. In this case, the two lower sheets should be removed and an oblique cut (at an angle of 45 degrees) should be made on the handle just below the node. The upper cut is made straight and all the remaining leaves are shortened by half.

If buds have already formed on the shoots of the hydrangea, then the top with the inflorescence must be cut off.

In order for rooting to be successful, it is recommended to soak the cuttings in a growth stimulator solution (Epin or HB101) - according to the instructions.

Then dust the lower cut with a root stimulator in the form of a powder or granules (for example, Kornevin).

How to root hydrangea cuttings?

In addition to the cuttings themselves, prepare the container, substrate and water in advance (in a watering can and spray bottle).

For rooting hydrangeas, a mixture of coarse sand and peat in a ratio of 1: 2 is suitable.

The soil mixture is moistened and leveled.

The container is placed in a warm and shady place. Cuttings are regularly watered: at least once a week, and in the heat - every day. The optimum air temperature is 18-25°C. Under such conditions, hydrangea cuttings take root after 3-4 weeks. The signal for this will be the appearance of new leaves on them.

Caring for cuttings after rooting

After the roots appear, the covering material is removed, the cuttings are planted in separate pots filled with a mixture of garden soil, peat and sand (in the ratio (2:2:1) and continue to grow in a shady place. At the same time, do not forget to water regularly.

A hydrangea grown from a cutting is planted in a permanent place only next spring, and it is pre-hardened on the balcony. In addition, if the plant is frail, it is better to first place it in a school bed until it gets stronger.

Tree-like and large-leaved hydrangeas can also be propagated by semi-lignified and lignified shoots (in spring and autumn). And for grafting paniculate hydrangea, only green cuttings are suitable, which are cut in the summer. Hurry before the plant blooms!