Do you or your neighbors have a gorgeous Viburnum (often called a Snowball Bush) that you’ve been eyeing? If you’ve got an empty spot in your garden just waiting for some fresh greenery, you’re in luck! These shrubs are actually pretty easy to propagate.
There are two main ways to get the job done:
- Using root suckers (offshoots)
- Taking cuttings
Propagating Viburnum via Root Suckers
If your plant is sending out runners, you’re in luck—this is by far the easiest way to start a new shrub. The best time to do this is in the spring. Just follow these three simple steps:
- Snip off a strong, healthy root sucker from the main plant.
- Replant that sucker directly into a spot with good soil.
- Give it a nice, deep soak immediately after planting.
Viburnums are thirsty plants, especially while they’re trying to establish themselves. Make sure to water your new addition regularly over the next few weeks so it doesn’t dry out. For the best results, pick a spot that gets plenty of sun or at least some partial shade.
Growing Viburnum from Cuttings
Not every variety of Viburnum will produce root suckers, but don’t worry—you can still grow them from cuttings (sometimes called “slips”). Since these little guys like temperatures between 70°F and 85°F to get started, summer or early fall is the perfect time to try this method.
To do this, you’ll need a cutting that is at least 4 inches long. If you have an evergreen variety, go for a woodier stem; for deciduous types (the ones that lose their leaves), a softer, “herbaceous” green stem works best. Here are a few pro-tips to help your cuttings take root:
- Start your cutting in a small pot filled with high-quality seed-starting mix.
- Keep the soil consistently moist—never let it bone dry.
- Keep it out of direct, scorching sunlight while it’s still vulnerable.
- A greenhouse or a sheltered, humid spot is ideal for early growth.
- Want a head start? Dip the end of the cutting in some rooting hormone before planting.
Why Growing from Seed Isn’t the Best Idea
Technically, you *can* grow Viburnum from seed, but I wouldn’t usually recommend it. Many modern varieties are bred to be sterile, meaning the seeds won’t sprout at all. Even if they do, they require “stratification” (a cold treatment) and take a very long time to grow. Plus, there’s no guarantee the new plant will look anything like the parent plant. Stick to cuttings or suckers for the best results!
