Taking cuttings, also known as cloning, is one of the most effective ways to preserve the genetics of a plant you love. Whether you're growing a strain with exceptional genetics, flavour, or growth traits, cloning ensures that you replicate those exact qualities every time. Cloning is a crucial technique for growers who want consistency, and with a proper guide, it’s something even beginners can master.
This blog will walk you through the equipment you need, the step-by-step process of taking cuttings, and the conditions necessary for nurturing those cuttings into strong, healthy plants.
What You’ll Need to Take Cuttings
Before starting, gather all the necessary equipment to make the process smooth and effective. Here's a list of the essential tools you'll need:
Equipment:
- Sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears – To make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.
- Scalpel or razor blade – For trimming the cutting’s stem at a 45-degree angle.
- Rooting hormone (gel or powder) – To encourage faster root development.
- Starter cubes or plugs (Rockwool, peat pellets, or coco coir plugs) – These provide the initial growing medium for the cuttings.
- A propagation tray with a humidity dome – To maintain a humid environment during the early stages of growth.
- Spray bottle filled with water – For misting the cuttings and keeping humidity high.
- Rooting solution (optional) – To soak your starter cubes and enhance the rooting process.
- Small propagation heat mat (optional) – To provide a consistent, gentle warmth for faster rooting.
- Labelling tools – To keep track of different strains or cuttings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Cuttings from a Mother Plant
Step 1: Select a Healthy Mother Plant
Choose a strong, healthy mother plant that’s at least two months old. It's best to take cuttings during the vegetative phase when the plant is growing robustly. The mother should be free of pests, diseases, and stress to ensure that the clones are vigorous and healthy.
Tip: The ideal mother plant should be at least 3–4 weeks into its vegetative stage for the best results.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace and Tools
Ensure your workspace is clean and sanitized to reduce the risk of contamination. Wash your hands, disinfect your tools, and set up the equipment so everything is within reach. Cuttings are delicate, and cleanliness is crucial to prevent infection or disease.
Step 3: Soak the Starter Cubes
Before cutting, soak your starter cubes or plugs in pH-balanced water (around 5.5–6.0) or a rooting stimulant. This ensures the cubes are moist and ready to support the new cuttings. The cubes should be damp but not soaking wet, as excess water can hinder root development.
Step 4: Choose the Right Branch for Cutting
Identify a branch from the lower half of the mother plant that is healthy and has at least two to four nodes. Lower branches tend to have more rooting hormones, making them easier to root. The ideal cutting should be 4–8 inches long and have several healthy leaves.
Step 5: Make the Cut
Using your sterilized scalpel or pruning shears, cut the branch at a 45-degree angle just below a node (the point where leaves grow out). The 45-degree angle increases the surface area of the cut, allowing for better water and nutrient absorption.
Step 6: Trim the Leaves
Once you’ve made your cut, use a scalpel or pruners to carefully remove the lowest set of leaves and any small branches near the bottom of the cutting. Leave the top set of leaves intact but trim the tips of the larger fan leaves. This reduces water loss through transpiration and encourages the cutting to focus its energy on rooting.
Step 7: Dip in Rooting Hormone
Dip the freshly cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone gel or powder. Rooting hormones contain compounds that stimulate root growth, speeding up the cloning process. Make sure the cut end is well-coated but don’t let any excess hormone clog the starter cube.
Step 8: Place the Cutting in the Starter Cube
Gently place the cutting into the pre-soaked starter cube or plug. Make sure it sits firmly but not too deep — just deep enough to stabilize the cutting without crushing the stem. The medium will provide moisture and support while the roots develop.
Step 9: Transfer to the Propagation Tray
Once the cutting is placed in the cube, transfer it to a propagation tray. Make sure the cuttings are spaced evenly to prevent overcrowding and allow for air circulation. The humidity dome should cover the tray to create a humid environment that encourages root growth.
Caring for Your Cuttings
Now that your cuttings are in place, they need proper conditions to thrive. Here are the essential elements to focus on during the rooting phase:
Cuttings require high humidity levels to prevent water loss through the leaves since they don’t have roots yet to take up water. Keep humidity at 80-90% by using the humidity dome and misting the cuttings regularly with a spray bottle.
The ideal temperature for cuttings is between (21-24°C). If necessary, use a propagation heat mat to maintain a stable, warm environment.
Cuttings don't need intense light right away, as their primary focus is on developing roots, not photosynthesis. Use low-intensity light such as T5 fluorescent lights or LED grow lights, placing them about 18–24 inches above the cuttings. Keep the lights on for 18 hours per day.
Tip: Don’t expose the cuttings to strong direct light, as this can stress them and slow down the rooting process.
Good airflow is important to prevent Mold and rot. Open the humidity dome periodically (at least once a day) to allow fresh air to circulate. Over time, gradually decrease humidity by removing the dome for longer periods to help the cuttings acclimate to normal room conditions.
Ensure the starter cubes remain moist, but not waterlogged. Excess water can lead to root rot. If the cubes or plugs start drying out, lightly mist them or add a small amount of water/starter feed to the propagation tray.
Root Development and Transplanting
Monitor for Roots
Cuttings generally start developing roots within 7 to 14 days, depending on the strain and conditions. Check for root growth by gently lifting the starter cubes to see if roots are poking through the bottom. Once the roots are 2–3 inches long, they’re ready to be transplanted.
Transplanting to a Growing Medium
After the roots have developed, it’s time to transplant the clones into their final growing medium—be it soil, coco coir, or a hydroponic system.
Steps for Transplanting:
- Prepare your chosen medium in pots or grow containers.
- Gently remove the cutting from the starter cube, being careful not to damage the new roots.
- Place the cutting in the prepared medium, making sure the root system is covered and secure.
- Water the clones lightly and keep them in low-intensity light for a few days as they adjust to their new environment.
Conclusion
Taking cuttings from a mother plant is a reliable and rewarding way to propagate your favourite strains. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully clone plants and enjoy the benefits of consistent, high-quality yields. With the right tools, care, and attention to detail, your cuttings will root quickly and grow into strong, healthy clones that carry the best traits of your mother plant.
Cloning is an essential skill for any grower looking to maintain genetic consistency, save time, and improve their cultivation process. With practice, it can become second nature—and your garden will thank you for it!