Take cuttings from new shoots
It’s easy to take basal cuttings from clumps of herbaceous flowers and herbs growing in borders, pots or in a greenhouse. This method works because the new shoots in spring grow directly from the roots and have tissue at the base that is ready to grow a root system, or may have already started. The trick is to cut them off below the surface of the soil or potting compost.
Plants sprout from winter dormancy at different times, so check on your favourites over the coming weeks. Choose short stout shoots that feel firm at the base. Cut large leaves by half to reduce water loss.
Put the pots of cuttings in a propagator, or cover with a clear plastic bag and place on a bright windowsill or in a greenhouse. Cuttings taken from outdoor plants should even root in a coldframe.
Plant several per pot, then you can treat them as an instant clump when planting out or potting on. They should root in just a few weeks, and may even flower this year.
VISIT gardenersworld.com/cuttings for more advice on taking cuttings