Propagating clematis in water is an easy, inexpensive way to get more of these beautiful flowering vines for your garden. While clematis does best when rooted directly in soil, it is possible to root the vines in water. With a few simple supplies and proper care, you can grow new clematis plants from cuttings.
Overview of Propagating Clematis in Water
Propagating plants in water works for many herbaceous plants, but woody vines like clematis do better when rooted directly in a soil or soilless potting mix. However, rooting in water is worth trying since it allows you to watch the rooting process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Taking softwood cuttings from healthy clematis vines is ideal. Take 3-6 inch cuttings in spring or early summer.
- Rooting hormone can help speed up the process but is optional.
- Change the water every 2-3 days to provide oxygen and prevent rotting.
- Roots may take 4-8 weeks to form. Transplant to soil once roots are 1 inch long.
- Acclimate transplanted cuttings gradually to prevent shock. Keep moist and out of direct sun at first.
Follow the step-by-step instructions below for the best results propagating clematis in water.
Supplies Needed
- Healthy clematis vine
- Sharp, clean pruners or scissors
- Clear glass jar, vase, or bottle
- Rooting hormone (optional)
- Small pots and potting mix
Step 1: Take Cuttings
Take 3-6 inch long cuttings from vigorous, non-flowering vines in spring or early summer. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node using sterilized pruners. Remove flowers and all but the top two sets of leaves.
Take more cuttings than you need since not all may root successfully
![Clematis stem cutting with leaves][]
A clematis softwood cutting ready for rooting, Image credit Empress of Dirt
Step 2: Dip in Rooting Hormone (Optional)
While not required, dipping the cut end in rooting hormone may help speed up root development. Pour a small amount of powder into a dish and dip the cut end. Tap off excess powder before proceeding.
Step 3. Place Cutting in Water
Place the cutting in a jar of room temperature water immediately after taking it. Fill the jar with fresh water and add more water as needed to keep the level high.
Change the water every 2-3 days. The fresh water provides oxygen to the cutting.
Step 4: Store in Bright Location
Place the jar near a sunny window but out of direct sunlight The cutting needs bright, indirect light to photosynthesize while forming roots
Step 5: Watch for Root Growth
Check daily for signs of roots emerging from the stem nodes under water. This may take anywhere from 2-8 weeks. Roots may be white, yellow, or brown and will look thin and threadlike at first.
Step 6: Transplant to Soil
Once the cutting has developed roots about 1 inch long, it’s time to pot it up in soil. Gently loosen the roots and plant in a 3-4 inch pot filled with potting mix. Water thoroughly and place in indirect light.
Acclimate the newly potted clematis gradually to life outside of water. Keep it out of direct sun and maintain evenly moist soil at first. Once established, transition to its permanent spot in the garden.![Clematis cuttings forming roots in jars of water][]
Clematis cuttings developing roots in water before transplanting to soil. Image credit: Empress of Dirt
Tips for Propagating Clematis in Water
Follow these tips to improve your chances of successfully rooting clematis cuttings in water:
- Take softwood cuttings for quicker rooting compared to hardwood.
- Use room temperature filtered or distilled water to prevent rotting.
- Change water every 2-3 days and sterilize containers weekly.
- Avoid direct sun which can overheat water and cause rot.
- Look for new growth as a sign roots are developing.
- Transplant to soil once roots are about 1 inch long.
- Acclimate potted cuttings gradually before moving outdoors.
Common Problems When Rooting in Water
Rooting clematis in water does not always go smoothly. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:
Rotting stems: Change water frequently and avoid direct sun. Use cooler water in hot climates. Add a drop of hydrogen peroxide to clean water.
Algae growth: Change water more often. Use filtered or distilled water. Keep cuttings out of direct sun.
Leaf yellowing: This is a sign of stress. Increase air circulation and provide bright, indirect light.
No root growth: Rooting hormone may help. Take new cuttings and try a different source plant.
Growing On Your New Clematis Starts
Once your clematis cuttings have developed a hardy root system and been transplanted into soil, you can begin caring for them as you would a more mature clematis vine. Here are a few tips:
- Continue growing in pots until well established, at least 6 months.
- Water when the top few inches of soil become dry. Avoid saturated soil.
- Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
- Prune only if needed for your variety. Avoid heavy pruning the first 2 years.
- Transplant into garden in early spring once risk of frost has passed.
- Provide support for the vines to climb. Install trellises and fences before planting.
By taking stem cuttings and rooting in water, you can easily propagate clematis vines. Though it may take more time and effort than rooting directly in potting mix, it allows you to witness the fascinating process of roots emerging right before your eyes. Follow the instructions carefully and you’ll soon have beautiful new clematis plants for your garden.
How to take cuttings from a clematis
FAQ
How long does it take for clematis to root in water?
Can you propagate clematis from cuttings?
Will clematis grow in water?
Do you cut back clematis every year?
How do you propagate Clematis?
Perhaps the easiest and most natural way to propagate clematis is by layering. Layering is a process by which plants sprout roots directly from their stems upon contact with soil. This technique may not work as well in cold climates where stems die back to the ground each winter. Step 1: Select stems to layer.
How do you root clematis stem cuttings?
Once the cuttings are prepared, the next step is to root them. There are a few different you can use to root clematis stem cuttings, including water propagation, soil propagation, or a combination of both. If you choose to root the cuttings in water, fill a clean glass or jar with water and place the cuttings in it.
Can you grow clematis from cuttings?
Stem cuttings are a great way to make more clematis plants that usually grow within a single season. Not all cuttings will take root and grow, so take several for success. Less than 50 percent of cuttings taking root is considered normal. Step 1: Select stems of new growth. Take softwood cuttings from newer, softer stems in late spring.
How do you grow a clematis in a pot?
You need a small 3-4-inch pot for each cutting. Use a pot with good drainage holes because you never want your clematis to sit in soggy soil. Fill the small pot (or pots) with high-quality potting soil. Soil should be loose, light, and well-drained. Water the soil with just enough water to make the soil uniformly moist but not wet.
What is the best container for propagating Clematis in water?
In summary, the best container for propagating clematis in water is one that is clear, clean, wide-mouthed, and large enough to hold the amount of cuttings that you’re propagating. This will ensure that the cuttings have plenty of room to root and that the process is successful. You may want to see also
How do you grow a clematis vine?
Layering (stem of a living vine is pinned to the ground until it establishes strong roots). Grafting (not considered the best way to grow clematis). Growing new plant from cuttings (quick and easy but not all will root). Choose an established vine (two years or older) to take cuttings from. Be sure it’s not an invasive variety.