Take 4–6 inch softwood cuttings from healthy hydrangea stems in late spring or early summer
Choose non-flowering stems with at least two to three leaf nodes
Use clean, sharp pruning shears
Cut just below a leaf node
Remove the lower leaves, leaving one or two pairs at the top
Trim large remaining leaves in half to reduce moisture loss
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone
Fill a pot with moist, well-draining potting mix
Make a hole in the soil and insert the cutting
Firm the soil gently around the stem
Water lightly to settle the mix
Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or humidity dome
Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light
Maintain warm temperatures
Keep the soil consistently moist, not soggy
Air out the cover occasionally to prevent mold
Check for root growth after a few weeks by gently tugging the cutting
Transplant rooted cuttings into larger pots or the garden once established
Harden off young plants before moving them outdoors permanently