STEP BY STEP

How to take basal cuttings of herbs

1

CUT off all the old withered remains of last season’s growth, to reveal the fresh new spring shoots underneath, from which you will select your cuttings.

2

FILL a pot with compost, mixing in extra grit to improve the drainage, particularly for plants that grow best in well-drained soil. Firm the compost, water it and let it drain.

3

SELECT the strongest, stockiest shoots and cut them off below the compost surface with a knife. Make sure you have some firm tissue or, even better, small roots at the base.

4

REMOVE the lower leaves, then make a hole at the edge of the pot with a dibber and lower in the cutting. Firm the compost around it. Once all the cuttings are in place, water well.