Hydrangeas, celebrated for their vibrant blue, purple, and pink blooms, are a favourite for brightening garden borders. But with their flowering season lasting only a few months, many garden enthusiasts are keen to find ways to enjoy more of these eye-catching shrubs.
Enter Anya Lautenbach, better known online as The Garden Fairy, who has shared an easy propagation method to multiply hydrangeas without spending a penny. According to Lautenbach, late summer through early autumn is the ideal time to try the technique, making September the perfect month for gardeners to experiment.
The process begins by selecting the healthiest shoots of the season’s growth. Lautenbach advises looking for firm stems with a woody base.
Using garden clippers or secateurs, cut just below a node where leaves are growing, removing any leaves on the lower third of the cutting, and trimming the top leaves in half.
Next, place the cuttings in a container of clear water and position them in a light spot out of direct sunlight. The water should be refreshed regularly to keep it clean and prevent bacteria from developing.
With the right balance of light and water, but away from intense heat, new roots should begin to form within four to six weeks.
Once the roots are established, the cuttings can be transferred to a larger pot filled with soil.
Lautenbach notes that the method works for all types of hydrangeas, including mophead, lacecap, and climbing varieties.
She also emphasises that cuttings can be used to propagate a wide range of hardy perennials, from lavender and herbs to shrubs, trees, and ground-cover plants, without any special equipment or expertise.
Fans of The Garden Fairy have added their own tips in the comments, suggesting that once the roots have developed, the plant should be kept in a warm area, such as a greenhouse, with a clear plastic bag to maintain consistent hydration.
By spring, the young hydrangeas can be moved outside to a semi-shaded spot and watered regularly until they are fully established.
