How to Propagate Sage

Sage is a fragrant herb that is hardy and easy to grow. However, it needs to be propagated by cuttings. Seeds are difficult to establish, and they take a long time to sprout. Cut sage in early spring for the best results. Avoid cutting any stems that have fresh buds on them, as the plant will waste energy trying to develop these instead of growing new roots.

Things You'll Need

Sharp shears
Paper towel
Plastic bag
Perlite

Peat moss
Pot
Rooting powder

Instructions

- 1
  Cut several branches of sage using sharp pruning shears. Cut below the node on fresh growth, either from this year or from the previous year.
- 2
  Set the cuttings in a damp paper towel and seal them in a plastic bag. Put them in the refrigerator if you aren't able to plant them right away.
- 3
  Prepare a sterile medium for the cuttings. A mix of 1 part peat moss and 1 part perlite works well. Put the medium in a pot.
- 4
  Remove the lower leaves from the sage cuttings. These leaves rot in the soil and compromise the health of the plant.
- 5
  Dip the stems into a rooting powder. Rooting powders are a commercial product that stimulates the growth of the roots with rooting hormones. This step is optional but can help the sage grow roots faster. Read the instructions on the package for directions.
- 6
  Press the cuttings into the soil so that 1/2 or 1/3 of their length is in the soil.
- 7
  Set the pot in a location where it will get plenty of filtered light. Keep the cuttings moist by watering the soil and misting the plant. Wrap the pot in a clear plastic bag to help retain water.

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