Propagate Parsley (and other herbs) from Stem Cuttings

You can easily propagate parsley by rooting stem cuttings in water. Gardeners may find it useful to take garden cuttings in the fall and use this method for growing parsley indoors during the winter.

Note: Some herbs are easier than others to propagate from cuttings. Many sites say rooting parsley from cuttings is hit and miss. Other herbs, especially those that are perennials, are more reliable.

Cuttings of other herbs like basil, rosemary, lemon balm, oregano, sage or mint can also be propagated from stem cuttings placed in water.

Begin with 4 to 6 inch (10-15 cm.) long stems trimmed directly below the lowest leaf node. Make the cut at an angle to allow more water to enter the stem. Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 to 3 inches (5-8 cm.) of the stem. It’s a good idea to take a few cuttings to make sure at least one of them will root.

The little joints on the stems contain the cells responsible for making new leaves, buds, and stems. For many plants, this node also tells the plant to produce roots, even if the roots don’t grow from the node. It’s best to snip newer growth on the tip of the plant that isn’t tough yet.

Avoid cutting herbs that are actively flowering because you want the plant’s energy to be focused on forming roots, not flowers. If you do take cuttings from a flowering plant, be sure to pinch off any flowers before you root it.

Then place the prepared stems in a glass of fresh water and set it on a sunny window sill. Change the water frequently - every day or two to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.

Water: Filtered water and spring water are good choices. Avoid distilled water, which lacks important trace minerals, and chlorinated water, which may hurt plant tissues. You can also leave chlorinated tap water out for 24 hours to let the chlorine evaporate.

When growing parsley from cuttings, it takes about a week for the hair-like roots to emerge from the leaf nodes. When the roots are about 2 inches (5 cm.) long, the cuttings can be potted. Keep the soil moist while the new plants become established.