Cutting Preparation

Step 8	Select a cutting from any area of the plant where the new growth has just begun to harden. (With gardenias and azaleas this begins around the first of August.) Your first cut should be back into the hardwood. The cuttings should be approximately five inches in length. (Pictures 6, 8)
Step 9	Place your thumb at the junction of the new and old growth. Using your thumb and forefinger pull the stem down close to the main stem away from the hard wood. A trace of the hardwood will remain on the cutting.
Step 10	Remove most of the leaves from the stem by pulling down and out to avoid tearing the stem. When the leaves break away without tearing that is a good sign that the stem is mature enough for planting. Retain approximately two to three small leaves at the top. Since roots no longer support the stem, there will be a limited source of water to support additional leaves. Picture 7