The Best Plants to Take Cuttings from This Late Summer

As summer begins to mellow and the days grow slightly shorter, August and September still offer plenty of warmth and light to support plant propagation. This late-summer window is perfect for encouraging healthy root development before autumn sets in. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a green-fingered beginner, propagation is a simple, budget-friendly way to multiply your plants and spread the greenery.

Jo Lambell shares her top picks for the best plants to propagate during August and September, along with her tried and tested tips for success:

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Pothos is a houseplant staple, and late summer is an ideal time to propagate it. “Pothos cuttings root easily in warm temperatures and bright, indirect light” says Jo Lambell. “Take a 4 to 6 inch cutting just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water”. You’ll often see roots within 1 to 2 weeks. Once they’re about an inch long, your new plant is ready to pot up.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – Spider plants naturally produce offshoots or ‘pups’, which are perfect for propagation in August and September. Jo advises, “Snip off a pup that has small nubs or roots already visible. You can place it directly into water or soil”. These hardy plants bounce back quickly and thrive in bright, indirect light, making them perfect for beginners.
Peperomia (Peperomia obtusifolia, caperata, etc.) – Peperomia varieties are excellent candidates for late summer propagation through leaf or stem cuttings. “Cut a healthy leaf with a short stem or a piece of stem with a few leaves attached” Jo explains. “Pop it in moist soil and keep the humidity high using a plastic dome or bag”. With steady warmth, new growth will start to appear in a few weeks.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – While ZZ plants grow slowly, August and September are good months to get propagation started. “You can propagate ZZs through leaf cuttings or division” Jo says. “Place individual leaflets into moist potting soil and keep warm. Roots take longer to form, but late summer warmth gives them a great head start” – be patient, this one’s a slow but satisfying grower.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – If you have herbs growing outdoors, late summer is your last chance to propagate before temperatures drop. Rosemary, in particular, thrives when propagated now. Jo recommends, “Take a 4 inch softwood cutting, strip the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone if you have it. Place it in well-draining compost and keep it slightly moist”. Rosemary prefers lots of light, so a sunny windowsill or outdoor spot is ideal.
Hoya (Hoya carnosa, Hoya pubicalyx, etc.) – Hoyas, with their waxy leaves and trailing vines, are ideal for propagation in warm months. Jo suggests, “Snip a few inches of stem just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil. Keep it warm and bright, but out of direct sun”. These tropical beauties root well in late summer and will be ready to grow indoors as the cooler months approach.

Jo’s Top Tips for Late Summer Propagation:

Sunlight and Warmth: Place your cuttings near a bright window with indirect sunlight. Keep temperatures between 18 to 26°C for the best results.
Clean Tools: Always use sterilised scissors or pruning shears to prevent the spread of bacteria or disease.
Water or Soil: Use water for visible rooting, or well-draining soil for faster transition to pots. Change water regularly to avoid stagnation.
Be Patient: While some plants root quickly, others may take several weeks.

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