Spring is in the air, and green thumbs everywhere are itching to get back into the garden.
One of the most beloved flowering shrubs? The hydrangea—lush, low-maintenance, and capable of putting on a stunning display of blooms well into autumn. But what if yours isn’t bouncing back after winter?
According to gardening experts, the answer could be hiding in your kitchen: a raw potato.
The Potato Propagation Trick That’s Making Gardeners Smile
It sounds strange, but this gardening hack is rooted in solid advice. If your hydrangea looks tired or you're hoping to multiply your plants this year, skip the pricey tools and grab a potato instead.
Here's why:
When propagating hydrangeas (or other plants) from cuttings, keeping the stem moist is critical for successful root formation. A raw potato acts like a natural moisture reservoir, keeping your cutting hydrated and stable during its most delicate growth phase.
As reported by The Mirror, this potato trick isn’t new, but it’s gaining popularity again for its simplicity—and its results.
How It Works
Flower expert Elise Harlock from Prestige Flowers explained the method to Devon Live, calling the humble potato an “unexpectedly useful gardening tool.”
Here’s how to do it:
Take a fresh cutting from a healthy hydrangea stem—ideally one without flowers.
Dip the base of the cutting into rooting hormone (optional, but it boosts success).
Push the cutting into a raw potato, about 2–3 cm deep.
Plant the potato with the cutting directly into well-draining soil, leaving only the top of the stem visible above ground.
Water gently and keep the area moist but not soggy.
After a few weeks, gently tug the cutting. If it resists, roots have likely formed. That’s your cue to transplant it into a pot or garden bed.
Why It Works
Potatoes are naturally rich in moisture and nutrients—exactly what a cutting needs to establish roots. They also help stabilize the cutting in the soil, reducing the chance of damage.
“Rooting hydrangea cuttings in potatoes provides a consistent moisture environment,” Harlock said. “It’s simple, but incredibly effective.”
Once your new hydrangea begins to grow, remember that young plants are fragile. If planted outdoors, check regularly for signs of stress, pests, or frost damage. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong roots.
