Complete Gardening
Winter is the perfect time to start propagating hardwood plants. The cold season allows these plants to establish roots and flourish by spring.
In this blog post, we explore ten of the best hardwood plants to start propagating now, ensuring a lush and vibrant garden come warmer weather.
1. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are a garden favorite, known for their lush blooms. In winter, their hardwood cuttings are perfect for propagation. Choose healthy, leafless stems about 6 inches long.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance growth. Plant them in moist soil and cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity. Keep them in a cool place, away from direct sunlight.
By spring, these cuttings will likely develop roots, ready to be transplanted outdoors. Hydrangeas’ vibrant colors will brighten any garden with their stunning blue, pink, or white blossoms.
2. Rose
Roses are classic and elegant, making them a must for any garden. In winter, propagate using hardwood cuttings. Select a healthy stem, about 8 inches long, from a dormant bush.
Cut just above a bud and remove thorns from the lower half. Use rooting hormone and plant in sandy soil. Cover with a cloche or plastic to maintain warmth and moisture.
With patience, the cuttings will root by spring, ready to enhance your floral displays. Roses cater to various tastes, offering a palette from deep reds to soft yellows.
3. Forsythia
Forsythia is known for its cheerful yellow blooms that herald spring. To propagate, take hardwood cuttings in winter, choosing stems that are pencil-thick and about a foot long.
Trim the base at an angle and dip in rooting hormone for best results. Plant them in a cold frame or directly in the ground where they will receive sunlight.
Forsythia cuttings root easily, making them a great choice for beginners. As they mature, these shrubs offer a burst of sunshine in your garden, signaling warmer days ahead.
4. Lilac
Lilacs are beloved for their fragrance and beauty. Winter is the ideal time to propagate them from hardwood cuttings. Select mature stems, about 10 inches long, from healthy plants.
Remove any remaining leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Place them in a pot with well-draining soil, and cover to keep humidity high.
Position in indirect sunlight and watch for roots by spring. Lilacs can transform a garden with their sweet-scented blooms, offering hues of purple, white, and pink that captivate visitors each season.
5. Grape Vine
Grape vines are not just for vineyards; they make an excellent addition to home gardens too. Winter is the time to propagate them using hardwood cuttings.
Take 12-inch cuttings from mature vines, ensuring at least three nodes per cutting. Dip in rooting hormone and plant in a pot with sandy soil.
Keep them in a sheltered spot until spring, when new growth appears. These cuttings can lead to fruitful harvests, providing bunches of sweet, juicy grapes perfect for snacking or winemaking.
6. Mock Orange
Mock orange is cherished for its citrus-scented blossoms. In winter, propagate using hardwood cuttings taken from healthy branches, about 6-8 inches long.
Trim below a node and dip in rooting hormone before planting in a well-drained mix. Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Place in a cool, bright location until roots form. By spring, these cuttings will be ready for transplanting, promising fragrant blooms that add elegance to any garden setting. Mock orange is an ideal choice for those seeking aromatic beauty.
7. Spirea
Spirea is a versatile shrub known for its cascading flowers. Winter propagation involves taking hardwood cuttings from healthy branches, about 8 inches long.
Remove lower leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Plant them in a pot with moist, sandy soil, and cover to conserve moisture.
Keep in a warm spot with indirect light. By spring, new roots should develop, readying the cuttings for outdoor planting. Spirea’s vibrant blooms and easy care make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscapes.
8. Quince
Quince is valued for its ornamental flowers and edible fruits. During winter, propagate quince using hardwood cuttings about 10 inches long.
Select robust stems and trim just below a node. Use rooting hormone and plant in a pot with well-draining soil.
Place in a bright, cool area, maintaining moisture until roots form. By the time spring arrives, these cuttings can be transplanted outdoors, promising delightful blooms and fruit. Quince adds both beauty and functionality to gardens, offering a charming and productive presence.
9. Currant
Currants are small but mighty, offering both beauty and bounty. In winter, propagate them using hardwood cuttings from mature plants, approximately 8-10 inches long.
Cut just above a bud and dip in rooting hormone. Plant in moist, well-drained soil, and cover with mulch.
Keep in a sheltered location to encourage rooting. By spring, these cuttings will be ready for outdoor planting, providing a foundation for future harvests. Currants are perfect for those looking to add a splash of color and flavor to their gardens.
10. Dogwood
Dogwoods are iconic for their beautiful blooms and striking bark. Winter is ideal for propagating them from hardwood cuttings. Choose straight, healthy stems 6-8 inches long.
Trim just below a leaf node and dip in rooting hormone. Plant in well-drained soil, keeping them in a cool, bright spot.
Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. By spring, roots should form, preparing these cuttings for outdoor planting. Dogwoods add year-round interest to gardens, with their spring flowers and colorful fall foliage.