How to Build a Plant Propagation Unit

Cuttings are an effective way to increase the number of plants in your garden. Traditional methods of rooting them, however, can be messy and take up a lot of space. Building a plant propagation unit that fits inside a plastic shoebox or similar container means more space and less mess for you, and more time spent enjoying your new plants.

Things You'll Need

Clear plastic box with lid
1 to 3 unglazed terracotta pots, 1- to 3-inch diameter
Caulk or silicone

Potting mix or other growing medium
Rooting hormone
Cuttings

Instructions

- 1
  Fill the drainage holes of the terracotta pots with caulk or silicone. This will prevent water from escaping, forcing it to seep slowly out the sides of the pot.
- 2
  Fill a clear plastic container 1/2 to 3/4 full of potting mix or your growing medium of choice. Wet the potting mix until it is damp but not soggy.
- 3
  Push the terracotta pots into the potting mix until the mix reaches almost to the top of the pots. The number of pots you use will depend on the size of your pots and container. Space the pots evenly, about 8 inches apart. These will be your water reservoirs.
- 4
  Dip your cuttings in rooting hormone.
- 5
  Make holes in the potting mix 2 or 3 inches apart with your finger or a pencil. Insert one cutting into each hole. Tamp down the potting mix around the cuttings a little to hold them in place.
- 6
  Fill the terracotta pots with rainwater, distilled water or well water. Do not use tap water, because the chlorine may be detrimental to your plants. Refill the reservoirs as they become empty.
- 7
  Place the lid on the box.

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