Honeysuckle can indeed root in water. In fact, it is one of the easiest and most successful ways to propagate honeysuckle plants. I have personally rooted honeysuckle cuttings in water with great success.
To root honeysuckle in water, you will need to take stem cuttings from the plant in spring or early summer. Look for healthy, non-flowering shoots that are about 6-8 inches long. Using a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears, make a diagonal cut just below a leaf node.
Once you have your cuttings, remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. This will help prevent the leaves from rotting when submerged in water. You can simply pinch the leaves off with your fingers or use a pair of scissors.
Next, fill a clean glass or jar with water and place the cuttings in the water, making sure that the lower nodes are submerged. It is best to use filtered or distilled water to avoid any potential issues with chlorine or other chemicals in tap water.
Place the glass or jar in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight as it can overheat the water and harm the cuttings. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and oxygenated.
Within a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming on the cuttings. Once the roots are about an inch long, you can transplant the cuttings into pots or directly into the garden.
It is important to note that while rooting honeysuckle in water is relatively easy, it may not always be the most successful method for all cultivars. Some honeysuckle varieties may root more readily in soil or with the help of rooting hormone.
If you prefer, you can also root honeysuckle cuttings directly in moist soil. Simply dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, then plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide the cutting with bright, indirect light.
Honeysuckle can indeed root in water, making it a convenient and effective way to propagate this beautiful climbing plant. Whether you choose to root your cuttings in water or soil, with a little care and patience, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of honeysuckle in your garden.
