Take semi-ripe cuttings

Semi-ripe cuttings are taken from the current season's growth later in the year, usually between May and September.  It is a common method of propagating shrubs.  Semi-ripe shoots will show some resistance to bending between thumb and forefinger, but will not be woody.

Cuttings should be taken in the morning when the plant is full of moisture, and prevented from drying out.  Select pest and disease free material that is typical of the mother plant, and using a sharp knife remove a section of stem 10 - 15cm  (4 - 6 in) long, cutting just above a leaf joint (node).

Plants such as viburnum and choisya will root from nodal cuttings.  For these reduce the stem to 7 - 10cm (3 - 4in), cutting just below a node.  Remove the lower leaves from the stem.  The soft tip may be pinched out, but this is not essential.

Some plants root more successfully from a heel cutting.  Select cutting material in the same way, but gently tear away from the mother plant to leave a short heel of woody tissue at the base of the cutting.  This should be trimmed to a few millimetres.  This method is suitable for conifers, rosemary, lavender and berberis.

Internodal cuttings are used for a few plants such as clematis.  Trim a section of stem to about 5cm (2in) in length just above a node and 3 - 4 cm (1.5 - 2in) below a node.  Remove one leaf from each cutting.

Whichever method is used to produce the cutting dip the base into hormone rooting powder and tap off any excess.

Fill a pot or tray with cuttings compost plus 50% sand, perlite or vermiculite.  Dib a hole and insert the cutting so that the lower leaves are just clear of the compost.  Cuttings may be inserted around the edge of a pot to increase drainage and air flow.  Water lightly.  Place in a shaded position in a coldframe, heated propagator (18 - 25^oC) or cover with a plastic bag secured with an elastic band.  Keep moist but overwatering encourages rotting.

After several weeks check for root growth by very gently tugging on the cutting - resistance means roots are forming, or knock the compost out of the pot to check for root growth.  When the cuttings are well rooted acclimatize to the natural environment and pot on individually for planting out when established.