How to Take a Cannabis Clone: Step-by-Step Guide

Cloning cannabis is one of the most effective ways to preserve your favorite genetics and produce consistent, healthy plants. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to take a successful cannabis clone, what supplies you'll need, and how to care for your cuttings during the rooting process.

What Is Cannabis Cloning?

A cannabis clone is a cutting taken from a mature "mother" plant. This cutting will grow into a new plant that is genetically identical to the original, allowing you to preserve traits like cannabinoid profile, yield, aroma, and resistance to pests or mold.

Why Clone Instead of Planting Seeds?

• Consistent genetics and traits
• Faster time to harvest (no germination required)
• Cost-effective for long-term cultivation
• Guaranteed plant gender (female, if the mother is female)

What You’ll Need

• Healthy cannabis mother plant
• Sterile razor or scalpel
• Rooting hormone (gel or powder)
• Rockwool cube, peat plug, or coco starter
• Humidity dome or propagation tray
• Spray bottle with water
• Low-intensity LED or T5 grow light

Step-by-Step: How to Take a Cannabis Clone

1. Choose a Healthy Branch

Select a lower branch from a strong, pest-free mother plant. Look for a branch with at least one node and vibrant growth.

2. Make a Clean Cut

Using a clean razor, cut the branch at a 45-degree angle just below a node. This increases the surface area for rooting.

3. Dip into Rooting Hormone

Immediately dip the cut end into rooting hormone to stimulate root development and prevent infection.

4. Place into a Rooting Medium

Insert the cutting gently into a pre-moistened rockwool cube or plug. Press lightly to secure it without damaging the stem.

5. Maintain Ideal Environment

Place the clone under a humidity dome and mist daily. Keep temperatures between 72–78°F and humidity at 80–90%.

6. Wait for Roots

Roots typically appear in 7–14 days. Once strong root structures form, you can transplant the clone into a pot or hydroponic system.

Optimize Your Cloning Environment

Use our free Cloning Environment Planner to dial in temperature, humidity, and light for ideal rooting conditions.

Explore Our Full Cannabis Propagation Guide

Want to dive deeper into seeding, cloning, and rooting methods? Check out our full Propagation Learning Module for expert tips and techniques.

Shop Propagation Supplies

We carry everything you need to start strong—from rooting gels and plugs to domes and lights. Shop propagation supplies now.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a cannabis clone to root?

Most clones will develop roots within 7–14 days, depending on the environment and strain.

Do I need to use a humidity dome?

Yes. Young clones lack root systems to absorb water, so high humidity helps prevent wilting and supports root development.

Can I take clones from a flowering plant?

It's possible, but not recommended. Clones from vegetative-stage plants root faster and with higher success rates.

What’s the best light for rooting clones?

Use low-intensity lighting such as T5 fluorescents or LED strip lights. Clones don’t need intense light until they’re rooted.

Should I feed nutrients to clones?

No. Clones should only receive water and light until roots are established. Nutrients can cause burn or stress before rooting occurs.