|
|
 |
|---|
A root cutting is a piece of root that, when cut and replanted, will produce an entirely new plant. Because taking root cuttings can harm the parent plant, this technique should not be used in a natural area unless it is slated for bulldozing. You can also take root cuttings from plants already established in your yard in order to multiply those plants.
The best time to collect root cuttings is during the dormant season (late fall through winter). As you dig around the plant, try to disturb it as little as possible. Look for roots that are ¼ - ½ inch in diameter. Each cutting should be long enough to have at least four buds (they will look like small bumps, or may actually have rootlets growing from them). Root cuttings grow best in warm soil, so if you collect them during the winter bury them in moist sand and keep them at 40 degrees F until spring.
To plant the cuttings, dig a hole and place a cutting in it horizontally. Cover it with soil so the root cutting is one inch below the surface of the soil. Do not over- water, or it will rot; if planted in a reasonably moist area, they should be fine on their own. Root cuttings can also be planted in trays or pots, and then planted out after they develop leaves and the root system fills the pot.
Many herbaceous plants have underground stems called rhizomes. These can be used to propagate plants in a manner similar to root cuttings. Rhizome cuttings are best taken during the dormant season (late fall through winter). Again, because this technique can harm the parent plant, it should not be used in a natural area unless it is slated for bulldozing.
1. With your hands or a hand trowel, carefully dig around the plant to locate the rhizomes. They will be white or pale, and smooth with buds and visible roots (sort of a cross between a root and a stem).
2. Once located, severe the rhizome from the parent plant and dig the segment up. Then cut the rhizome into sections that are at least three inches in length, making sure each section has at least two buds (buds will be a bump or ridge).
3. Immediately plant the rhizome sections horizontally in pots, flats, or on-site.
