The Propagation of Small Shrubbery
Propagating your own shrubs is an inexpensive way to expand your garden. Propagate small shrubs by seeds, cuttings or division. Propagating from seeds may not result in a shrub identical to the parent shrub if the parent is a hybrid. Does this Spark an idea?
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Seeds
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After the flowers fade, shrubs produce fruiting structures such as seed pods, capsules, seed heads or berries. These structures contain the seeds. Wait as long as possible to harvest seeds to be sure they are completely mature. Remove the seeds and dry them completely before storage.
Hard-Coated Seeds
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Hard-coated seeds need special treatment before planting. You may have to nick the seed coat, and some seeds need to alternate between chilling and freezing temperatures over a period of three to four months.
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Cuttings
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Softwood cuttings are probably the easiest way to propagate shrubs, but not all shrubs grow well from cuttings. Take cuttings of new growth in early spring. Use a rooting hormone and a good quality rooting medium for best results.
Division
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Divide shrubs that have multiple stems arising from the ground and those that grow from root structures such as tubers or rhizomes. Divide in late fall or early spring when the shrub is not actively growing. Cut back the shrub and then dig it up. You may need a sharp knife to divide the roots into sections. Each section should have plenty of roots and top growth. Replant the divisions as soon as possible.
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