ROOT CUTTINGS

ROOT cuttings are the easiest way to propagate plants with large or long tap roots. To find the cuttings, dig up a mature plant. Shake soil from roots and use a pocket knife to remove as many of the thicker roots as you need. Partially fill a plant pot or seed tray with compost and gently push thick root cuttings vertically into the compost, bottom ends downwards. Lay thin rootcuttings horizontally onto the potting compost. Top up, firm the compost gently and water thoroughly. Place in a cold frame and keep compost damp all winter. Shoots will appear next spring or early summer.