Tips on Taking Root Cuttings

Taking root cuttings is an important part of keeping your garden healthy as well as propagating new plants; however, it is important that you know how to go about this task the correct way. The most important factors in cutting back the roots of your plants is the time of year in which you do it, as well as the time in the life of the plant.

Ideally, you should cut back the roots of your plants during late winter. This is when the maximum amounts of carbohydrates are stored in your plants for the coming spring growth period. It is also imperative that you cut back the roots of your plants when they are still relatively young; preferably around one year of age. With plants this young, you should focus on cutting back as close as possible to the crown of the plant.

Once the roots have been cut, you should make a special effort to then wash them free of any remaining soil before you begin to divide them and cut them into further lengths. The manner in which you regenerate them at this point will depend largely on the type of plant that you are working with.

For example, plants that tend to regenerate quite easily can simply be placed in a good quality of nutritious soil and covered. Plants; however, that find it more difficult to regenerate may need a more protected environment, such as an area that can be kept warm for several weeks at a time.

Some types of plants can take as long as four months in cooler environments to regenerate; however, when they are placed in a warmer environment, the regeneration time is significantly reduced. In some cases, plants can regenerate in as little as a month to six weeks when allowed to do so in a warm setting.

Be aware, when taking root cuttings, that one of the most common problems that many gardeners run into is rot. The most frequent cause of this problem is a lack of moisture in the root cuttings. It is imperative that they be kept damp, but not overly wet. Ideally, they should be only moist. Also, be aware of the fact that top growth will generally start before you see any activities in the roots; therefore, it is important that patience is exercised and you avoid transplanting the cuttings before the new root growth is well established.

Of course, you may also choose to propagate your roots outdoors, but you will need to take care that they are kept covered for at least six weeks, preferably up to eight weeks. Moisture must be maintained and it is best if the roots are placed in soil that has been well cultivated and allows for good drainage.