In the summer, I have amazing success with most softwood cuttings stuck into a sandy moist area in the branch/creek near my house. They seem o root within 2 to 4 weeks and WELL ! And, best of all, I didn't have to water them and they were out of my way (and out of the way of my pets who like to knock things over or trample things).

That method with the creek sounds interesting. Could you add a photo? We actually have a creek, however it is extremely variable and maybe after a big storm all cuttings would be ripped out.

Sorry, but I have no camera phone. I read Thoams Jefferson's Writings and he mentioned it in his book. I was doing it before then, too, though. You need no photo - choose a spot where the sand is moist, but where it isn't submerged and won't get washed away. Summer is best, so things won't rot,.... BUTTTT, some of the shrub cuttings for temperate zones will make it through winter and maybe even a grow roots a tiny bit.

Thanks! I think the major thing is that it would wash away in out situation. But it still is interesting, I could dig a big hole besides the creek were there is ground water. Never heard of Thomas Jefferson. I like the low tech approach. Our frosts only go to below -5C (below freezing) so the ground is never really frozen.

I would make sure that hole has an overflow. I imagine any creek that would have washout issues might also get enough rain to fill a hole with cuttings.

I do the same thing, but no creek involved. Just use whatever empty spaces flower beds have to offer.

That sounds easy as there are no potting mix extra watering or stupid little pots involved. Which plants do you propagate this way?