Garden hack

One of the best ways to save money and increase your garden’s bounty is by cloning or propagating plants yourself. I’ve found that plants such as tomatoes, basil, and pineapple sage root really well from cuttings or suckers, making them ideal candidates for cloning. Using a propagation mix of half peat moss and half perlite creates an excellent environment for roots to develop because it offers good moisture retention while ensuring enough aeration. This balance encourages healthy root growth without the risk of rot. Another tip I’ve used is to plant the suckers or cuttings directly into propagation cells or small pots, which makes it easier to monitor and handle the young plants before transplanting. Herbs like mint and rosemary are also fantastic for cloning. Mint spreads quickly and can thrive even when propagated in water before moving into soil. Rosemary cuttings can be a bit slower but give great results when kept in warm, humid conditions. Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida) is another incredibly easy plant to clone. Simply take stem cuttings, remove the lower leaves, and place them in water or moist soil. They root quickly and are perfect for adding color and texture to your indoor or outdoor garden. Remember, consistency is key; keep your cuttings misted and out of direct harsh sunlight until roots form. Cloning your plants not only helps you multiply your garden effortlessly but also deepens your connection with your plants by giving you hands-on growing experience.