Some types of plants produce new shoots (basal shoots) at the base of older stems in spring and early summer, e.g. Chrysanthemums.
Method;
If necessary; scrape the soil away from the base of the plant, then with a sharp knife, razor blade or scalpel, carefully cut away new shoots approx 75-100mm (3"- 4") long.
Leave shorter shoots to develop for cutting at a later date.
Trim off stem under lowest leaf and remove all dead or damaged growth before inserting cuttings into sandy compost.
If a cutting becomes detached with roots on, leave them intact, and the cutting will establish itself quicker, this is known as an 'Irishman's cutting'
Fill a tray or pot with sieved compost, do not compact it, just tap it gently on the bench, and soak it thoroughly with water.
Sprinkle about 3-6mmmm (1/8"-1/4") of silver sand over the compost.
Trim the cutting to just under a leaf node (leaf joint/scar), and remove the lower leaves to expose approx 1” (25mm) of stem.
Dip cutting in rooting powder/fluid (optional)
Insert the cutting into the compost.
An alternative method; is to place several cuttings around the edge of a suitable sized pot,cover it with a plastic bag, held in position with a rubber band.
Place the tray / pot in a warm place, preferably with bottom heat.
A soil temperature of around 16°C (60°F) and a minimum air temperature of 4°C (40°F) is ideal.
Give the cuttings plenty of light, but ensure that they are not scorched by direct sunlight.
Spray cuttings at least once per day with either fresh water or a fungicide mixture to prevent dehydration.
A sign that they have rooted is, the growing tip will be a ‘fresh’ green colour.
Pot on into 75 mm (3") pots of potting compost when rooted.