Many people enjoy receiving freebies, and here’s a way to fill your garden with free plants next year. However, you need to act quickly, as the best plants for propagation in September are available for a limited time.
If you’re looking to refresh your garden or simply want to add more greenery, check if you have any of the top plants suitable for cuttings. By using what you already have, you can save money and get a jumpstart on next year’s garden.
Not every plant in your garden can be propagated this month, so we’ve put together a list of nine plants you can propagate in September to ensure a vibrant garden next spring.
1. Lavender
By September, lavender plants will have finished flowering, making it a great time to propagate them. Morris Hankinson, Managing Director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, suggests taking cuttings from non-flowering shoots of the current year’s growth. Remove the lower leaves, optionally dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in gritty, well-drained compost. Keep them in a greenhouse over winter.
2. Geraniums
Geraniums are perfect for adding color to your garden and are low-maintenance. September is an ideal time to take cuttings, especially since overwintering geraniums can be tricky. While you can collect seeds, cuttings are generally more reliable.
3. Salvia
If you have salvia plants, now is the time to propagate them. Cut non-flowering stems about 10 cm long, remove the lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and pot them in gritty compost. Be cautious not to take too many cuttings, as the plants need their foliage to survive winter.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary cuttings can be taken any time of year, but doing so in September ensures you’ll have fresh herbs for spring dishes. Plant the cuttings in soil and keep them moist. You can keep them indoors or gradually acclimate them to the outdoors.
5. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas can be expensive, so propagating them can save you money. If you have established plants, now is the right time to take cuttings. Cut healthy stems just below a node, remove most leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and pot them in well-drained compost.
6. Fuchsias
Fuchsias are vibrant and can enhance your garden’s appearance. To propagate, take 3-inch cuttings from the tips of shoots, remove lower leaves and flower buds, and plant them in compost. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to help them root.
7. Penstemons
Penstemons are an excellent alternative to foxgloves and are easy to propagate. Cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in free-draining compost. Keeping them in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse during winter is advisable.
8. Verbena
Verbena is a tender perennial that can be challenging to overwinter. Taking cuttings in September ensures you have plants for next year. Plant the cuttings in fresh compost and keep them warm indoors over winter.
9. Kingfisher Daisy
Also known as Felicia amelloides, the kingfisher daisy is a stunning plant with blue flowers. If you have this plant, take cuttings in September and keep them warm over winter. Come spring, you can replant them for a beautiful display.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a flourishing garden filled with free blooms next year.