August is an ideal month for propagating plants from cuttings, making it an excellent time to expand your garden stock for free. The reason for this is that the new growth from the spring and early summer has now matured, becoming what gardeners call ‘semi-ripe’ or ‘semi-hardwood’. This means the stems are no longer soft and floppy, but they haven’t yet become woody and hard. This stage of growth is perfect for taking cuttings because the stems are firm enough to withstand the process, yet still supple enough to produce new roots easily.

By taking cuttings in August, you give the new plants a good head start. This sun’s warmth, combined with the active growth period, allows the cuttings to establish a strong root system before the cooler weather of autumn and winter arrives. Plants such as fuchsias, pelargoniums, lavender, and hydrangeas are particularly well-suited for this method, as they are known to root easily during this period.

Starting new plants in August also means you can keep them protected in a greenhouse, cold frame, or on a sunny windowsill over the winter. This gives them a chance to grow stronger and be ready for planting out in the garden the following spring. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to get more of your favourite plants and fill out your garden borders, containers, or even give some away to friends and family.