How to Take Wisteria Cuttings (UK Guide) | Propagating Wisteria Step-by-Step
Introduction: Growing Your Own Wisteria from Cuttings
If you love the elegant beauty of wisteria and want to grow more without buying new plants, you might be wondering: can you grow wisteria from cuttings? The answer is yes! Taking wisteria cuttings is a rewarding and cost-effective way to propagate this stunning climber in the UK. While wisteria grown from cuttings may take a bit longer to flower than grafted plants, it’s a great option for gardeners who want to expand their collection or share with friends.
Can You Propagate Wisteria from Cuttings?
Yes, wisteria can be propagated from softwood cuttings in summer or semi-ripe cuttings in late summer to early autumn. While wisteria can also be grown from seed or layered, cuttings are a quicker, more reliable method for producing clones of the parent plant.
When to Take Wisteria Cuttings (UK Timing)
| Cutting Type | Best Time (UK) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Softwood | Late spring to early summer (May–June) | New, flexible green shoots |
| Semi-ripe | Late summer (August–September) | Firmer, partially mature stems |
Softwood cuttings root more quickly, but semi-ripe cuttings are more robust.
What You’ll Need
- Sharp, clean secateurs
- Small pots or trays
- Peat-free, well-draining compost or cutting compost
- Grit or perlite (for aeration)
- Rooting hormone (optional, but helpful)
- Clear plastic bag or propagator
- Labels and pencil
How to Take Wisteria Cuttings Step-by-Step
1. Choose Healthy Growth
- Select a non-flowering shoot about 10–15 cm long
- Choose young, disease-free stems with several leaf nodes
- Avoid woody or flower-spiked sections
2. Prepare the Cutting
- Trim the cutting just below a node (leaf joint)
- Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top two or three
- If using rooting hormone, dip the cut end into the powder
3. Potting the Cutting
- Fill small pots with a mix of cutting compost and perlite/grit
- Insert the cuttings 3–4 cm deep into the soil
- Water gently and allow to drain
4. Create a Humid Environment
- Cover with a clear plastic bag or place in a propagator
- Keep out of direct sun, but in a bright, warm spot (18–21°C)
- Ventilate occasionally to prevent mould
5. Aftercare
- Check regularly for signs of rot or drying out
- Water lightly to keep compost moist, not soggy
- Roots should form in 4–8 weeks
What to Do Once Cuttings Root
- Gently tug to check for resistance — a sign roots have developed
- Transplant rooted cuttings into small pots with fresh compost
- Harden off young plants gradually before moving outdoors
- Grow in a cold frame or sheltered area over winter
Most cutting-grown wisterias take several years to flower — but they’ll eventually produce the same lovely blooms as the parent plant.
Alternative Propagation Methods
- Layering: Bend a low-growing stem to the ground, peg it down, and cover with soil. Roots develop at the buried node in 6–12 months.
- Seed: Possible, but wisteria grown from seed may not flower for 10+ years and won’t resemble the parent plant.
Top Tips for Success
- Take multiple cuttings to improve success rate
- Label each pot with the variety and date
- Use clean tools and containers to prevent fungal issues
- Be patient — wisteria takes time, but it’s worth it!
Conclusion
Taking wisteria cuttings in the UK is a great way to propagate your favourite climber, whether for personal use or gifting. With a bit of patience, the right timing, and proper aftercare, you can grow your own wisteria plants from cuttings and enjoy their spectacular blooms for years to come.