---
title: How to take basal cuttings from Lupins in March
description: Learn how to take basal cuttings from lupins in March for strong, identical plants. Follow our step-by-step guide for successful propagation.
---

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## ![Stepbystep guide to taking lupin basal cuttingsStep 1 Identify suitable shootsLook for young shoots 510cm tallChoose shoots growing from the base of t](https://www.theonlinegardencenter.com/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/Stepbystep%20guide%20to%20taking%20lupin%20basal%20cuttingsStep%201%20Identify%20suitable%20shootsLook%20for%20young%20shoots%20510cm%20tallChoose%20shoots%20growing%20from%20the%20base%20of%20t.png?width=1024&height=1024&name=Stepbystep%20guide%20to%20taking%20lupin%20basal%20cuttingsStep%201%20Identify%20suitable%20shootsLook%20for%20young%20shoots%20510cm%20tallChoose%20shoots%20growing%20from%20the%20base%20of%20t.png)

## How to take basal cuttings from lupins in March

Taking basal cuttings from lupins in March is one of the best ways to produce strong, identical plants. This method allows you to clone your best-performing plants and maintain desirable colours and characteristics.

It’s a simple propagation technique that gives reliable results when done at the right time.

## Quick answer: how to take lupin basal cuttings

To take basal cuttings from lupins, select young shoots from the base of the plant, cut them cleanly with a small piece of root or stem, and place them in free-draining compost. Keep warm, lightly moist, and in bright indirect light until rooted.

## Step-by-step guide to taking lupin basal cuttings

Step 1: Identify suitable shoots

- Look for **young shoots (5–10cm tall)**
- Choose shoots growing from the **base of the plant**
- Avoid flowering or woody stems

Step 2: Take the cutting

- Use a **sharp, clean knife**
- Cut close to the base, including a small piece of crown tissue
- Handle gently to avoid damage

Step 3: Prepare the cutting

- Remove lower leaves if needed
- Dip the base in **rooting hormone (optional)**
- Keep the cutting fresh and moist

Step 4: Plant in compost

- Use a **free-draining mix** (compost with grit or perlite)
- Insert cuttings around the edge of a pot
- Firm gently

Step 5: Create the right environment

- Water lightly after planting
- Cover with a propagator lid or plastic bag
- Keep in **bright, indirect light** and moderate warmth

## When to take basal cuttings from lupins

Basal cuttings are best taken:

- In **early spring (March to April)**
- When new shoots are actively growing
- Before flowering begins

This timing ensures the highest success rate.

## Best Lupins for cuttings

- Russell hybrids 
    - Popular garden varieties
    - Wide range of colours
- Lupinus polyphyllus 
    - Strong growth
    - Reliable performance

Taking cuttings ensures you **preserve the exact traits** of the parent plant.

## Ideal conditions for rooting cuttings

- Light 
    - Bright, indirect light
- Temperature 
    - Cool to moderate (around 15–18°C)
- Compost 
    - Free-draining, low nutrient
- Water 
    - Keep lightly moist
    - Avoid waterlogging

Good airflow helps prevent rot while maintaining humidity supports rooting.

## Common problems

Cuttings wilting

- Cause: too much heat or low humidity
- Fix: increase humidity and reduce direct light

Rotting cuttings

- Cause: overwatering or poor drainage
- Fix: improve compost mix and reduce watering

Slow rooting

- Cause: low temperatures
- Fix: move to a slightly warmer spot

Failure to root

- Cause: incorrect cutting material
- Fix: use young basal shoots only

## Climate and regional notes

UK & Ireland

- March is ideal as growth begins
- Often done under cover or indoors

Europe

- Similar timing in northern regions
- Earlier in milder climates

USA

- Timing depends on local climate
- Take cuttings as new spring growth appears

## Pro tips for better success

- Take multiple cuttings to increase success rate
- Always use clean tools to prevent disease
- Label different varieties clearly
- Avoid direct sunlight during rooting
- Pot on once roots are well developed

## FAQs: taking lupin basal cuttings

**What are basal cuttings**  
They are cuttings taken from new shoots at the base of the plant.

**When is the best time to take lupin cuttings**  
Early spring, when new shoots are actively growing.

**Do I need rooting hormone**  
It helps improve success but is not essential.

**How long do lupin cuttings take to root**  
Usually a few weeks under the right conditions.

**Can I take cuttings from flowering stems**  
No, use young, non-flowering shoots.

**What compost should I use**  
A free-draining mix with added grit or perlite.

**Do I need a propagator**  
It helps maintain humidity but is not essential.

**Why are my cuttings rotting**  
Usually due to overwatering or poor drainage.

**When can I transplant rooted cuttings**  
Once roots are well established and growth resumes.

**Will cuttings be identical to the parent plant**  
Yes, they are clones of the original plant.

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