Cutting Cannabis Cuttings – The Complete Guide to Healthy Clones
Taking cuttings is one of the most effective methods for producing strong, genetically identical plants – whether for indoor growing, mother plant maintenance, or large production runs.
In this article, you will learn step by step how to cut, successfully root, and grow cuttings – all without cloning gel.
What are cuttings – and why is it worth it?
Clones are small shoots that you cut from a healthy mother plant to create a genetically identical copy.
Advantages:
- Same effect, yield & quality as the mother plant
- Time-saving (no germination process)
- Cost-reducing , especially for high-quality genetics
- Predictable result , ideal for medical or commercial grows
The right time to cut
- The mother plant should be at least 4–6 weeks old and in the growth phase
- Do not cut flowering shoots!
- Ideal: cut in the morning when the plant is still well hydrated
What you need
| Tools / Materials | Why? |
|---|---|
| Sharp, clean blade (scalpel or razor blade) | For precise, clean cuts |
| Propagator or mini greenhouse | For high humidity |
| Moist rooting medium (e.g. Jiffys, soil, coco) | To insert the cutting |
| Spray bottle with water | For moistening |
| Optional : Aloe Vera, willow water, honey | Natural root booster |
Instructions: How to cut cuttings correctly
1. Prepare the mother plant
- Use only healthy, strong plants
- Choose lower or middle side shoots , about 8–15 cm long
2. Make the cut
- Cut diagonally below a node point (45° angle)
- Remove lower leaves (and possibly side shoots)
- Trim large leaves to minimize evaporation
Tip: Halve the leaf area – this helps the cutting to save energy
3. Use root aid (optional)
- Dip in fresh aloe gel, willow water or honey
(→ antibacterial & hormonal effective)
4. Insert
- Carefully press the cutting into the medium
- Not too deep – about 2–3 cm is enough
Care & Rooting
| Condition | Optimal value |
|---|---|
| temperature | 22–26 °C |
| humidity | 80–95% |
| Light | Low light (18/6) |
| ventilation | 1x daily for 5–10 min |
| Pour | Moisten only slightly, not too wet |
Common mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Too much light / heat | Cutting burns |
| Lazy interface | Mold formation |
| Medium too wet | root rot |
| Mother plant in bloom | Cutting roots poorly or not at all |
Taking cuttings isn't rocket science—it just requires proper technique , a little patience , and the right setup. Those who avoid synthetic aids like cloning gel can also achieve great results with natural alternatives like aloe or willow water — organic, cost-effective, and gentle on the plants .