It’s –5°C and they’re taking cuttings: the Nordic technique that defies logic

In the dead of winter, when frost bites at –5°C, most gardeners retreat indoors. Yet, in Nordic countries, a curious practice persists: taking cuttings from plants. This method might seem counterintuitive, but it’s backed by fascinating plant biology and practical wisdom that defies common gardening logic.

Plant propagation through cuttings allows for creating identical clones, a process that ensures true-to-type growth without the genetic shuffle of seeds. In 2025, this technique remains a cornerstone for gardeners aiming to multiply their favorite species, even under freezing conditions.

Unraveling the Science Behind Cold-Weather Cuttings

Cuttings aren’t just random sticks shoved in soil; they’re carefully chosen parts of a plant—roots, stems, or leaves—placed in conditions that stimulate new growth. The magic lies in adventitious roots, those that spring from unexpected spots, helping the cutting regain life.

Plants like coleus, sweet potato, or hydrangea have a head start with preformed root initials, dormant roots ready to pop out once cut. This trait makes them quick to root, even when the mercury plunges. But others, such as grape or rose, rely on wound-induced roots, triggered by hormones like auxin—the plant’s own rooting whisperer.

Auxin: The Root Whisperer in Bitter Cold

Auxin’s role is crucial. When a stem is wounded, it accumulates at the cutting’s base, coaxing cells near the vascular tissue to morph into roots. This hormone only travels one way, so sticking the cutting upside-down is a gardener’s nightmare—it doesn’t matter if we try otherwise, roots form only where nature insists!

Applying rooting hormones mimicking auxin can boost success, especially in challenging winter conditions. These come as powders or gels, making sure the cutting gets the best start even when nature feels less cooperative.

Choosing the Right Timing and Type of Cutting for Nordic Winters

Not all cuttings are made equal. There’s a neat classification: herbaceous for soft, leafy parts taken indoors year-round; softwood for the freshest tentative growth; semi-hardwood bridging the gap; and hardwood cuttings, taken dormant during cold months.

During Nordic winters, hardwood cuttings shine. Roots don’t grow instantly, but these cuttings can survive chilling temperatures, callingusing over wounds and preparing to root once warmth returns. Some species like willow and roses thrive with this method, quietly defying the frost.

Callousing: Healing the Cutting’s Wound Off Season

It sounds like magic, but callousing is plants’ savvy healing process. Leaving cuttings out of water allows a protective scar to form, guarding against infection and setting the stage for rooting. In the chill of the Nordic air, it’s a patient dance between survival and growth.

This environment can be replicated indoors in humid setups for species that don’t handle dry cold well, ensuring each cutting has its best shot without drowning in soil or water.

Why Nordic Gardeners Stick with Cuttings in the Cold

Why brave the frost for cuttings? The answer lies in reliable cloning and seasonal necessity. Seeds mean uncertainty—genetics mingle and change. Cuttings guarantee your prized hydrangea or blueberry bush clones itself perfectly, every time.

Carbohydrates stored in the cutting fuel root growth, especially crucial since young cuttings can’t absorb nutrients yet. Ensuring mother plants are healthy pre-cutting is key. Too much nitrogen spells trouble, softening stems and inviting disease. Nordic gardeners get this balance just right for winter success.

Soil Versus Water: The Nordic Preference

While rooting cuttings in water looks easy and common, Nordic gardeners prefer soil. “Water roots” are delicate and struggle once transplanted. Soil-grown roots form robust systems adapted to the later growing medium. It means cuttings take a little longer but come out tougher—ready for the harsh Nordic climate.

With patience, cuttings taken even at –5°C can grow into thriving plants come spring. A paradox? Perhaps. But it’s also a celebration of the plant’s resilience and the gardener’s craft.

Élisabeth-Sophie Bonicel

At 38, I am a proud and passionate geek. My world revolves around comics, the latest cult series, and everything that makes pop culture tick. On this blog, I open the doors to my ‘lair’ to share my top picks, my reviews, and my life as a collector