The cheapest and easiest way to propagate plants is by using basal cuttings
When plants grow again, we can start taking cuttings from the new growth to create more plants. Cuttings are a better way to propagate plants than seeds because the plants will grow identically from their parent, while seeds may deviate, creating something new and unique. Although, it is fun to, for instance, sow the aquilegia you harvested and then be amazed at the different varieties that appear.
Some of the new growth of lupins, delphiniums and asters can be potted and removed from their base. They are known as ‘basal’ cuttings and are not to be confused with basil cuttings!
My experience has shown that rooting compound is easy to use and reliable. All you need is a sharp, clean garden knife, some rooting compound, a pot of seed and cuttings compost mixed with vermiculite and grit that has been watered and left to drain, some slim sticks and a clear plastic bag.
After the plants have grown a large clump of leaves around 10cm (4in) tall, remove some soil from the base and cut off a few of the shoots as close as possible to the…
