How to Take a Cutting from a Lavender Plant

By James Wilson · January 24, 2026

To take a cutting from a lavender plant, select a healthy non-flowering stem in early summer, cut a 4–6 inch section just below a leaf node, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Keep moist and in bright, indirect light until roots form in 3–4 weeks.

Why Take Lavender Cuttings?

Propagating lavender from cuttings is one of the most reliable methods to preserve the exact characteristics of a parent plant. Unlike growing from seed, which can result in variable traits, cuttings produce genetically identical plants with the same fragrance, color, and growth habit.

Preserves desirable traits like scent and flower color
Faster than growing from seed
Higher success rate compared to seeds or layering
Cost-effective way to expand your garden or share plants

Best Time to Take Lavender Cuttings

The ideal time to take lavender cuttings is in early summer (June–July), shortly after the first flush of growth but before flowering begins. At this stage, stems are semi-hardwood—firm enough to support new growth but still flexible.

Optimal Timing by Climate Zone

Temperate zones (USDA 5–8): Late June to mid-July
Warmer zones (USDA 9–10): Early June or late summer (August)
Cooler zones (USDA 3–4): July only, due to shorter growing season

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Lavender Cuttings

Follow these professional steps to maximize rooting success and ensure healthy new plants.

Step 1: Choose a Healthy Parent Plant

Select a mature lavender plant (at least 2 years old) that shows no signs of disease, pests, or stress. Look for vigorous new growth.

Step 2: Prepare Your Tools

Use clean, sharp pruning shears or a scalpel. Sterilize tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent pathogen transfer.

Step 3: Take the Cutting

Cut a 4–6 inch (10–15 cm) stem from the tip of a non-flowering shoot
Make the cut just below a leaf node (where leaves attach to the stem)
Avoid woody base sections; focus on green, flexible growth

Step 4: Prepare the Cutting

Remove leaves from the lower half of the stem
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel (optional but recommended)
Use a hormone containing IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) for best results

Step 5: Plant the Cutting

Fill small pots (3–4 inch) with a mix of 50% perlite and 50% peat-free compost
Insert cutting 2–3 inches deep, firm soil gently around it
Water lightly to settle the medium

Step 6: Provide Ideal Conditions

Place in bright, indirect light (avoid direct sun)
Maintain temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18–24°C)
Keep soil moist but not wet; mist occasionally if air is dry
Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal growth

Rooting Success Rates by Lavender Type and Method

Lavender Variety	Cutting Type	Rooting Hormone Used	Avg. Rooting Time (weeks)	Success Rate (%)
Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote'	Semi-hardwood	Yes (IBA 3000 ppm)	3.2	88
Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead'	Semi-hardwood	No	4.5	62
Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso'	Semi-hardwood	Yes (IBA 3000 ppm)	3.8	80
Lavandula stoechas	Softwood	Yes (IBA 1500 ppm)	4.0	70
Lavandula dentata	Softwood	No	5.0	45

Table data source:1, 2

Data shows that English lavenders (L. angustifolia) have the highest success rates when treated with rooting hormone, while French and Spanish types require more careful handling. Using IBA significantly reduces rooting time and increases viability across all varieties.

Caring for Newly Rooted Lavender Cuttings

Once roots are established (typically in 3–5 weeks), gradually acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions.

Check for roots: Gently tug on the stem; resistance indicates root formation
Transplant: Move to larger pots with sandy, well-draining soil after roots are 1–2 inches long
Hardening off: Expose to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days before planting outside
Final planting: Choose full sun and alkaline, well-drained soil; space 18–24 inches apart

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Taking Lavender Cuttings

Using flowering stems — energy is diverted to blooms, reducing rooting potential
Overwatering — leads to rot; lavender prefers drier conditions even as cuttings
Planting in dense soil — use gritty, free-draining mix to prevent waterlogging
Taking cuttings too late in season — reduces time for root development before winter
Exposing to direct sunlight immediately — causes scorching and dehydration

Frequently Asked Questions About Taking Lavender Cuttings

Can I root lavender cuttings in water?

While possible, rooting lavender in water is not recommended. Lavender requires excellent drainage, and water-rooted cuttings often fail to adapt to soil later. Use a well-draining propagation mix instead for higher success.

How long does it take for lavender cuttings to root?

Most lavender cuttings root in 3 to 5 weeks under optimal conditions. English lavender varieties typically root faster (3–4 weeks), while Spanish or French types may take up to 6 weeks.

Do I need rooting hormone for lavender cuttings?

Rooting hormone is not mandatory but significantly improves success rates. Studies show it can increase rooting success by 20–30%, especially for less vigorous varieties or in suboptimal conditions.

Can I take lavender cuttings in autumn?

Yes, but only in mild climates (USDA 8+). Autumn cuttings should be taken in September and grown indoors over winter. In colder zones, summer is preferred to allow sufficient root development before freezing temperatures.

What soil mix is best for lavender cuttings?

A mix of 50% perlite and 50% peat-free compost provides ideal drainage and aeration. Alternatively, use coarse sand or pumice blended with a small amount of organic matter. Avoid moisture-retentive soils.