Step-by-Step Guide to Propagating Sage from Cuttings

Propagating sage from cuttings is a rewarding way to expand your herb garden and/or share your plants with friends and family. Here’s a step-by-step guide (this method works for any variety of sage):

Get Sage Cuttings: Obtain healthy sage cuttings that are 4-6″ long. You can take these cuttings any time during the growing season.
Prepare the Cuttings:
- Remove leaves from the bottom of the sage stem leaving a few leaves at the top (with less leaves, the cutting will have more energy for root development). Roots will develop where the leaves have been taken off.
- Dip the cut end, and bottom areas where leaves have been taken off, in rooting hormone powder (optional but increases chances for root development and helps speed up the process).
Plant in Soil or Water:
- For soil propagation:
  - Plant the cutting in well-draining soil.
  - Water thoroughly and keep watered through the rooting process.
- For water propagation:
  - Submerge the stem (not the leaves) in a glass of water, changing the water if it gets dirty.
Wait for Roots: Be patient! It takes time for roots to grow. Expect roots to develop in 3-4 weeks or more. As long as the cutting is still healthy, just keep it in the soil or water until roots develop.
Pot Up or Transplant: Once roots are established, pot up your new sage plant or transplant it to the garden.