How to Take Root Cuttings

With the exception of variegated plants, which produce only green shoots from root cuttings, many perennials can be propagated using this method. Never take more than a few roots from each plant, and quickly replace the plants in the soil. Thin roots, such as those of garden phlox, should be laid horizontally on the soil to root.

Suitable Plants

Anemone
Bear’s breeches
Bellflower (Campanula)
Flowering kale (Crambe)
Bleeding heart
Globe thistle
Plume poppy
Oriental poppy
Sea holly (Eryngium)
Tree poppy (Romneya)
Verbascum

Trim Off Healthy Roots

In winter or early spring, lift the plant, scraping away soil from larger plants to expose the roots. Cutting close to the stems (crown), remove three or four fat, healthy roots, avoiding brittle, damaged or woody pieces. Seal in a plastic bag.

Cut Top and Bottom

Cut each root into 2- to 3-in. segments with a sharp knife. Trim the top end (nearest the crown) straight across and the bottom at an angle, to make sure you plant them right end up. You don't need to do this with thin roots.

Plant Up

Insert the root cuttings vertically in pots of soil (with the blunt end at the top), spacing them 2 inches apart. Lay thinner roots on the surface, covering them with 1/2 inch of coarse sand or grit. Water the roots with a diluted fungicide and move pots to a sheltered spot outside.