Whether you’re working with houseplants or herbs, many popular species thrive in the heat and light of June and July, making them ideal for fast, fuss-free propagation. According to Jo Lambell, horticulture expert and founder of Beards and Daisies, summer conditions give plants the energy boost they need to root quickly and establish themselves.
Jo says: “You can start new plants from cuttings now and see strong results within weeks.” The plant expert added that it’s all about “using the warmth and humidity to your advantage”. One of the easiest and most colourful options is Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides), known for its rich, velvety foliage in dazzling shades.
“Coleus cuttings root incredibly fast in summer,” Jo explains. “Simply snip a four to six-inch cuttings just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist potting mix.”
In warm spaces, roots can appear in as little as a week, making Coleus a great choice for beginner gardeners.
Another top pick is Begonia, including both Rex and Cane varieties, which can be propagated from either leaves or stems.
For leaf propagation, Jo recommends slightly nicking the veins and laying the leaf flat on damp soil, while stem cuttings should have at least one node that should be popped into soil or water.
Tradescantia, a trailing favourite, is also known for its speed and ease when it comes to propagation.
“Just take a few inches of stem cutting below a node,” Jo advises. “Strip off the bottom leaves, and place it in water. It’ll root quickly, often in less than a week.”
It’s a low-maintenance option perfect for hanging baskets or windowsills. For flower lovers, Geraniums (Pelargoniums) are another strong summer candidate.
Jo suggests cutting four to six-inch softwood stems, removing lower leaves, and letting the cutting dry for an hour before potting in well-draining compost. Water sparingly and keep in bright, indirect light for the best results.
If you’re after something a little more drought-tolerant, succulents are perfect for this time of year.
Take a healthy leaf, allow it to dry for a day or two, then lay it on soil and mist it gently. The warm, dry conditions of summer help succulents send out roots and even grow tiny new plants from a single leaf.
And for those who love cooking with fresh herbs, mint, basil, and oregano are easy to propagate now too. “Snip off four-inch cuttings just below a leaf node and place them in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill,” says Jo.
“Mint, in particular, is quick to root and is perfect for pots or garden beds once established.”