How to take hardwood cuttings
Follow these easy steps to take hardwood cuttings of woody plants.
Learning objectives:
- Understand how hardwood cuttings are used to propagate woody plants
- Recognise the key structures like stems and buds
- Practice using tools like secateurs to take cuttings
Curriculum links:
- Science: Understanding plant growth, propagation, and life cycles
- Design & Technology: Practical skills in using tools for cutting and planting
- Mathematics: Measuring and cutting to appropriate lengths
- PSHE: Developing responsibility through caring for living things
Key vocabulary
Introduction
Hardwood cuttings are a form of vegetative propagation and are an easy way of reproducing woody plants such as willow, dogwoods and soft fruits. This method is best from December-March when the plant is dormant and before the buds have opened. You will need compost and perlite or coarse grit, tall plant pots, clean and sharp secateurs, and labels.
