How To Take Cuttings From Woody Herbs; Sage, Rosemary, Lavender, Mint

Perennial herbs soon become woody so take cuttings for fresh leaves

Taking cuttings of woody herbs such as sage, rosemary, lavender and mint is easy to do, only takes a few minutes and increases your stock. Once they are established you can discard any old woody plants which are not producing as much new growth as they once did.

 You will need:

•    plastic pots – 15cm (6”)
•    well-draining potting compost (1 part potting compost to 1 part horticultural grit)
•    sharp knife
•    dibber or pencil
•    plastic bag

Fill the pots with the compost and tap on the bench to settle.

Take the cuttings from non-flowering stems and place in the plastic bag to transport them from the garden to the potting bench, this prevents them drying out. Cut the stem just below a leaf node and take off the bottom leaves, leaving just 3 – 4 at the top. The cutting should be about 10cm (4"). Make a hole with the dibber or pencil and drop the cutting in almost to the top leaves, firm in and water by standing in a tray of water for 10 – 15 minutes.

Place 3 – 4 cuttings around the edge of the pot.

Place somewhere cool and out of direct sun; you’ll know when they have rooted as they will start to grow new leaves. 

For more information on how to grow herbs just browse our blog articles or contact the Outdoor Plants department here in store.