I woundÂremove, using a razor-sharp knife, a thin slice or two of the outermost layer of the cutting about an inch or lessÂon most roses and clematis, plus anything with a harder stem, e.g., juniper. I usually don't wound cuttings from things like geranium and fuchsia. Depends on how far down on the stem I'm taking the cutting. Don't wound anything that's already soft (tip cuttings). Have pretty good success. Gary