The stem cuttings taken in fall or early winter when the plant is dormant are called which type?

The stem cuttings taken in fall or early winter when the plant is dormant are called which type?

• A. Softwood
• B. Hardwood
• C. Herbaceous
• D. Semi-hardwood

Answer: (B)

Hardwood cuttings come from mature, woody stems of deciduous plants during their dormant phase, typically taken in fall or early winter when growth has ceased. The wood is firm and well-formed, with stored carbohydrates that help the cutting survive overwinter and then form roots in spring, making this type ideal for species that root poorly from soft, green growth. In contrast, softwood cuttings come from fresh, green growth; semi-hardwood cuttings are from partially matured wood later in the season; and herbaceous cuttings are from non-woody, tender stems.

Hardwood cuttings come from mature, woody stems of deciduous plants during their dormant phase, typically taken in fall or early winter when growth has ceased. The wood is firm and well-formed, with stored carbohydrates that help the cutting survive overwinter and then form roots in spring, making this type ideal for species that root poorly from soft, green growth. In contrast, softwood cuttings come from fresh, green growth; semi-hardwood cuttings are from partially matured wood later in the season; and herbaceous cuttings are from non-woody, tender stems.