Turn One Hebe into Many – Without Spending a Penny on New Plants
Looking to fill your garden with hebe without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place. In this hands-on guide, I’ll show you exactly how to propagate hebe the easy way — even if you’re completely new to gardening.
With just a few simple tools and some time, you can create dozens of beautiful, healthy hebe plants for free. Whether you’re looking to expand your borders, share with friends, or save money at the garden centre, this method works. I’ve documented every step using photos from my own propagation process, and I’ll also link to the exact tools I use, all available from Amazon.
What You’ll Need to Propagate Hebe
Before you begin, gather your tools. Here are the essentials I personally use and recommend:
How to Propagate Hebe – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Hebe and Take Cuttings
Pick a healthy, non-flowering hebe plant in late summer or early autumn. Using clean pruning snips, take 10–15cm cuttings from fresh, non-woody stems just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves to expose the stem.
💡 Tip: Always take more cuttings than you need — not every one will take root.
Step 2: Prepare Your Potting Mix
Use a mix of multipurpose compost and perlite to create a light, free-draining soil that encourages strong root formation. Fill your propagation tray and firm it down lightly.
Step 3: Prepare the cutting
Before planting, snip the cutting to the correct length for your propagation tray just below a bud pair. Then dip the bare stem into rooting hormone powder. This natural product helps stimulate root growth and reduces the chance of rot.
Step 4: Insert the Cuttings
Use a dibber or pencil to make a hole, insert the cutting about halfway down, and gently press the soil around it. Space cuttings at least 2–3cm apart so air can circulate.
Step 5: Cover and Wait
Pop the lid on your propagator and place it somewhere bright but out of direct sun. I purchased this wooden framed polycarbonate growhouse to propagate my cuttings and protect them from the elements. Keep the soil just moist (not soggy) and open vents to prevent mould.
Roots usually form in 4–6 weeks. You’ll know they’ve taken when you see new growth.
Step 6: Pot On or Plant Out
Once your cuttings have rooted, you can move them into small pots with multipurpose compost, or straight into the garden in spring.
FAQs About Propagating Hebe
When is the best time to propagate hebe?
Late summer to early autumn is ideal. You want softwood or semi-ripe cuttings — not too woody, not too green.
Do I need to use rooting powder?
It’s not essential, but it really helps. I recommend Doff Natural Rooting Powder — it’s affordable and works well.
Can I propagate hebe in water?
Hebe doesn’t root well in water. It prefers soil or a perlite mix, especially in a humid environment like a propagator.
How long does it take for cuttings to root?
Usually 4–6 weeks, depending on temperature and conditions. Be patient, and keep the soil moist but never wet.
Ready to Grow Your Own Hebe?
Propagating hebe is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to multiply your plants. Whether you’re after more colour in your borders or thoughtful gifts for green-fingered friends, this method is simple and reliable.
If you’re just getting started, grab the right tools now using the affiliate links above — every click helps support this blog (at no extra cost to you). Happy growing!
