11 Herbs That Grow From Cuttings | Propagating Herbs

Here’re 11 Herbs that Grow from Cuttings, it’s an easy and less time-consuming method than seed propagation.

Not only can you save money by growing herbs from cuttings. Don’t forget it’s the easiest and less time-consuming method of propagating herbs as well.

Check out our article on rooting herb cuttings you buy from the store here

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Growing Herbs from Cuttings

There are three types of cuttings: Softwood Cuttings, Semi-hardwood cuttings, and Hardwood cuttings:

Softwood cuttings are taken from the young and tender stem growth when they’re green. Once the stem changes from green to brown and becomes brittle and old, the cuttings taken at this time are known as hardwood cuttings.

Usually, the success rate from softwood cuttings is higher than from hardwood cuttings, which means you should prefer the cuttings from the new growth instead of old growth as they are most likely to grow roots.

Take cuttings using a sharp tool–Cuttings must be at least 3-6 inches long. Take the cuttings at an angle just below a leaf node. A leaf node is where a leaf is attached. Remove all the lower set of leaves from the cuttings except the top few so that the energy could be focused only on the root generation.

You can grow them in either soil or water. Soil is preferable as it provides the necessary nutrients for plants to grow. Before planting, to increase the propagation rate, drop the node end of the cuttings into the water and then dip them in the rooting hormone.

Rooting hormones will stimulate root growth. You can use a commercial rooting hormone or make your own at home. You can use honey or aspirin for this purpose. Learn more about this here.

1. Thyme

This amazing herb has been used for thousands of years for medicinal and culinary uses. Cuttings should be taken at a node from the point where leaves grow, as roots are most responsive at this point. The cuttings should be planted in damp soil and away from the direct sun after removing lower leaves.

Also Read: Best Container Herb Combinations

2. Basil

One of the best herbs that grow from cuttings. Propagating basil will keep the supply of this herb going year around. All you have to do is cleave a basil stem (about 4-5 inches long) just below the leaf node and follow the steps we shared above. You can also place the basil cutting in the glass of water near the windowsill so it gets sufficient sunlight and grows roots. Avoid taking cuttings from the flowering part.

Also Read: Best Basil Growing Tips

3. Sage

With its refreshing mood fragrance and essential oils, sage is a must-have herb in your garden. Growing sage from cuttings is super easy: Take the cutting from a shoot approximately 6 cm below the node. Plant this cutting in moist soil and place it in a spot where it can receive morning sunlight. You can also grow cuttings in a glass of water to multiply your sage plants. Within two weeks, roots will start to appear!

4. Lavender

The best time to grow lavender from cuttings is in the summer (after the summer in hot climates) because the plant roots easily in this season. You will need a lavender plant, a sharp knife, a small 4-6 inches pot, soil, rooting hormone (liquid or powder), clear poly sheet. Check the detailed step-by-step DIY available here.

5. Rosemary

Growing rosemary from seeds is tedious work, so it’s better to propagate it from cuttings. Snip off 3-6 inches of non-flowering shoots, and remove all the lower leaves so that only 2-3 top leaves are left. Keep the cuttings in a DIY greenhouse, cold frame, or any sheltered and shaded space until they root in the next few weeks.

6. Oregano

This herb requires very little attention and can be grown indoors or outdoors. Oregano thrives in a moderately warm climate and is a hardy perennial. To propagate, take a few inches long cuttings from a healthy oregano plant. It is better to take the cuttings from the young shoots as they are more likely to sprout roots. Remove the leaves from the bottom half before planting.

7. Mint

Mint is a very popular herb that can be used either fresh or in dried form in many recipes. It has one of the highest antioxidant properties compared to many other herbs. Growing mint from cuttings is also possible in the water. Roots start to appear mostly in a week.

8. Sweet Woodruff

This herb has multiple uses and is most well known as an ingredient in May wine. It does not only have culinary uses, but it also works as an excellent ground cover in the garden. It thrives in partial and full shade, so it should be planted under trees. Its fragrance resembles freshly-mown hay or vanilla. Once planted, it thrives on its own if watered regularly. If you want to plant it somewhere else, propagation from cuttings is the easiest way.

9. Bee Balm

This herb has both culinary and medicinal uses. These plants bear bright flowers that attract butterflies and possess a minty fragrance which makes them ideal for bordering—the best time to propagate this herb by cuttings in late springs. Cut a 6-inch stem tip without flowers. Remove the leaves from the bottom half and dip the cutting in the rooting hormone. Stick the cutting two inches deep in a small pot filled with well-aerated soil.

Also Read: How to Grow Bee Balm

10. Marjoram

Marjoram is a versatile herb that has many uses in cooking and is also popular in aromatherapy. This herb has many health benefits. Seed germination is slow, and it takes approximately 2 weeks to germinate. Propagating marjoram is an easy way to multiply this herb in a short period. Take cuttings from the tip of the stem, which is not less than 3 inches in length. Leave 4-6 leaves from the top and remove all other leaves. You should plant cuttings in late summer or early spring. In a hot climate, do this in winters.

11. Parsley

Growing parsley from cuttings is possible, but the success rate is low. For this, take a 4-5 inches long stem with some leaves on top and place it an inch deep in the pot. Maintain the moisture and keep the cutting in a shady spot that receives indirect light. Wait for a couple of weeks for the emergence of roots.

Also Read: Growing Parsley in Pots