Grow Clematis From Cuttings

Step 1

Take cuttings in late spring or early summer. Early morning is best.

Step 2

Not all cuttings will root. Always do some extras just in case.

Step 3

Fill six 3-inches flower pots with potting mix and water thoroughly. Top up with potting mix if needed.

Step 4

Have clean scalpel, rooting hormone, cutting board, plastic bags ready in work area.

Step 5

Place warm, damp paper towel in plastic bag.

Step 6

Do not choose stems with buds or flowers. Vine should be at least two years old.

Step 7

Select a long (3-foot) stem without any buds or flowers. Cut just above a leaf joint.

Step 8

Immediately place cut end between damp paper towels in bag.

Step 9

Each stem has a tip and bottom that leads to the main plant. You will be cutting your cutting into smaller sections and planting the stem bottoms of each new piece in potting mix.

Step 10

With a clean scalpel, slice cutting as shown in diagram. First cut is one inch above a leaf joint, second cut removes one leaf stem, 3rd cut is two inches below leaf joint.

Step 11

Dip stem bottom in dish of rooting hormone powder, tap off excess, and insert stem into potting mix against inside of pot.

Step 12

Repeat placing up to four cuttings in each pot.

Step 13

If air is dry, loosely cover cuttings with plastic bags but allow air flow in and out. I prop them up with chopsticks. Do not let bag touch cuttings.

Step 14

Place out of direct sun in warm spot with indirect light.

Step 15

Check plants daily and water as needed: soil should be moist but not damp.

Step 16

Roots should form in 2-4 weeks.

Step 17

Continue growing and move to larger pot as needed. Add to garden by late summer.