Garden

How to Propagate Aromatic Herbs at Home: 11 Easy Cuttings with Pro Tips

Growing your own aromatic herbs isn’t just a money-saver—it’s also a simple and rewarding way to bring flavor and freshness to your kitchen and home.

Many herbs can be propagated from cuttings, which means you don’t need to buy seeds or plants again. All it takes is a healthy mother plant, a clean pair of scissors, water or soil, and a bit of patience.

This guide will walk you through 11 popular herbs you can multiply at home, with easy instructions, pro tips, and real-life insights. Whether you’re gardening on a balcony or a windowsill, you can enjoy fresh herbs year-round.

1. Basil – A kitchen essential

Snip a 10 cm (4 in) stem just below a node
Remove lower leaves and place in a glass of clean water

Tip: Place it in bright light (no direct sun) and change the water every 2 days. Roots appear in 10–14 days.

2. Mint – The fastest grower

Cut a 10–15 cm stem, remove the bottom leaves, and place it in water or moist soil. It often roots in a week.

3. Oregano – Small leaves, big aroma

Take a 7–10 cm angled cutting. Optionally, dip in cinnamon (a natural rooting agent). Roots in 3–4 weeks.

4. Thyme – Hardy and humble

Cut a soft stem just above a node and plant in sandy soil. Water lightly. Avoid soggy roots.

5. Stevia – The sweet one

Use a soft 8–10 cm cutting in water or moist soil. Cover with plastic to retain humidity.

6. Lavender – Beautiful and fragrant

Choose a 10–15 cm stem, remove lower leaves, lightly scrape the stem base, and plant. Cover for humidity.

7. Marjoram – Oregano’s cousin

Take a 5 cm non-flowering stem in early spring or late summer. Root in moist potting mix.

8. Lemon Balm – Calming and citrusy

Cut a 10 cm stem and place in water. Change the water every 2–3 days. Roots in 2 weeks.

9. Rosemary – Slow but steady

Use a semi-woody 10–15 cm stem. Remove bottom leaves, place in water or light soil. Roots in 4–8 weeks.

10. Sage – Soft and savory

Take a soft tip cutting in summer, root in water or moist soil. Keep warm and out of direct sunlight.

11. Tarragon – A French kitchen favorite

Cut 10–15 cm, strip the lower third of leaves, plant in damp soil. Repot in spring.

Expert Tips

Spring and early summer are ideal for propagation
Always disinfect your tools
Use plastic covers to retain humidity
Water sparingly to avoid rot
Use transparent jars to monitor roots

FAQ

Can I propagate in winter? Yes, but ensure warmth and light.
Do I need rooting hormone? Not necessary. Cinnamon or willow water works.
When to transfer to soil? When roots are 2–3 cm long and strong.

Conclusion

Propagating aromatic herbs from cuttings is easy, fun, and highly satisfying. Try it and grow your own herb garden today!