Dahlia Cuttings

Taking Softwood Cuttings from Dahlias

Propagating dahlias from softwood cuttings is one of the best ways to increase your stock of plants while keeping them true to type. It’s a straightforward technique, but success depends on understanding where and how to take the cutting — particularly the importance of cutting just below a node.

What Is a Softwood Cutting?

A softwood cutting is taken from fresh, young growth that is still soft and flexible, usually in spring or early summer. On dahlias, this growth is produced either from tubers that have been started into growth under cover or from established plants once they are actively growing.

Softwood cuttings root quickly and reliably when taken correctly, producing strong plants that often flower earlier than seed-grown dahlias.

Identifying Nodes and Internodes

Before taking a cutting, it’s important to recognise the structure of the stem:

• Node – the point on the stem where leaves emerge and where dormant buds are located. Nodes often appear slightly thicker or firmer.
• Internode – the section of stem between two nodes. This tissue is softer, more hollow, and more prone to rot.

Understanding this difference is key to successful propagation.

Where to Take the Cutting

When selecting a shoot, choose healthy, non-flowering growth around 7–10 cm (3–4 inches) long. The crucial point is where you make the cut.

Always take the cutting just below a node.

This is recommended for two important reasons:

1. Harder Tissue at the Node
   The stem tissue at and just below a node is denser and slightly woody compared to the softer internode. This firmer tissue is far less likely to rot once placed into compost.
2. Better Root Formation
   Nodes contain high concentrations of plant hormones (auxins) that encourage root development. Cutting just below a node gives the cutting the best possible chance to form strong roots quickly.

If a cutting is taken through an internode instead, the softer tissue is more susceptible to rotting before roots can form, especially in cool or overly damp conditions.

How to Take the Cutting

1. Use a sharp, clean knife or secateurs to avoid crushing the stem.
2. Cut the shoot just below a node, making a clean, straight cut.
3. Remove the lower leaves, leaving one or two pairs at the top.
4. If the remaining leaves are large, they can be trimmed by half to reduce moisture loss.
5. Dip the base in rooting hormone powder or gel (optional but helpful).
6. Insert the cutting into a free-draining compost, such as a mix of peat-free compost and perlite or sharp sand.

Aftercare

• Water lightly and allow excess moisture to drain away.
• Place the cuttings in a bright position out of direct sunlight.
• Maintain gentle humidity using a propagator or a loose plastic cover, ensuring some ventilation.
• Avoid overwatering — rot is the main cause of failure.

Roots usually form within two to three weeks, after which the cuttings can be potted on and gradually hardened off.

Taking softwood cuttings from dahlias is simple, but precision matters. By cutting just below a node, you take advantage of firmer stem tissue that resists rot and contains the growth hormones needed for reliable rooting. Avoiding cuts through soft internodes will significantly improve success rates and produce strong, healthy new dahlia plants.

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