Take basal cuttings

Basal cuttings are those taken of soft new shoots early - mid spring and are suitable for many herbaceous plants that form a cluster of new shoots at the base.

Select pest and disease free material from a healthy plant.  Cuttings should be taken in the morning when the plant is full of moisture, and prevented from drying out.

Remove cuttings when young shoots have 2 or 3 pairs of leaves.  With a sharp knife cut off each shoot with a thin segment or heel of the parent tuber or root.  Discard any hollow stems.  Dip cuttings into hormone rooting powder and tap off any excess.  Fill a pot or tray with cuttings compost plus 50% sand, perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.  Dib holes and insert the cuttings so that the lower leaves are clear or the compost.  Firm the compost around the cutting and water lightly. 

Cover with a polythene bag supported by a wire hoop or canes, secured with an elastic band, or place in a heated propagator away from strong sunlight.  The compost should be kept moist, but over watering encourges rotting.

When the cuttings have rooted, usually within a month, gently separate roots after knocking out, and pot up individually to grow on until plants are established.