Root Cuttings

Taking root cuttings from perennials is a simple method of propagating some plants that are tricky to propagate otherwise. Oriental poppies are one such plant and they lend themselves nicely to this method.

Dig up the plant in very early spring before it has sprouted. Cut off a series of roots from the outer edges of the root mass. These roots should be approximately 3-5 inches long and the diameter of a pencil.

Replant the mother plant. It will bloom and flower normally if this is done in the early spring.

Fill a flat or shallow container with soil. Place the root cuttings flat on this soil and slightly push down the outer end of the cuttings (the end of the cutting furthest away from the mother plant when it was still attached).

Cover the cutting with a half inch to inch of soil.

Keep the cuttings warm by placing them on a propagation heat mat. They will not root very well if kept at room temperatures.

Keep the soil barely damp and only use warm water when watering. You can cover the top with a clear cover but do not allow too much humidity to form on the cover. If covering, do not put in the direct sunlight as this can increase the soil temperatures a bit too much. Remember this is not like propagating cuttings where we want to restrict moisture loss. These root cuttings are below the soil surface and as long as the soil is just-damp, they'll be fine.

It can take them anywhere from a month to two months to throw new shoots/leaves but they will eventually do this.

Pot the small rooted cuttings into their own pot (be careful and try not to disturb the young roots).

Some gardeners like to grow the roots in this container all summer and transplant into the garden in the fall after the first frost. I've done it both ways with equal success and prefer moving the roots in the spring when they first start throwing shoots.

When you move the baby plants, plant the shoot at the same depth as it was in the propagation tray. It will grow roots and crowns at the correct depth from here.

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