By Jenny Mills· rural nurse & homesteader · health, safety, law and the paperwork of going bush
“After three failed attempts with cuttings in the dry heat, I learned that wrapping roots in damp hessian is the only way to save them before planting out.”
Off-Grid Australia (Perth): $8 for 100x biodegradable cuttings pots
Tip: Use a plastic bag over the pot to keep humidity high. Check daily – no soggy roots.
Division: Split the Plant
Grab a mature plant. Chop it in half. Plant both halves. Done.
Best for: Perennials like lemongrass, silverbeet, native grasses.
Water plant well the day before.
Dig up the whole plant. Shake off excess soil.
Split with a sharp knife or spade (no tearing).
Replant each section immediately.
Tip: Do this in spring or autumn. Avoid hot summer months – plants will die.
Layering: Let the Plant Do the Work
Take a branch. Bend it to the ground. Cover part of it with soil. Wait for roots.
Best for: Fruit trees (e.g., feijoas), native shrubs like Davidson's Plum.
Choose a flexible branch. Make a small cut on the underside.
Bend it down and pin it to the soil with a U-bend wire.
Cover the cut area with soil. Keep moist.
After 3-6 months, cut the new plant free.
Tip: Use a small rock to hold the branch down. No need for fancy tools.
Off-Grid Reality Check
Don't waste time on fancy methods. Stick to what works:
Seeds: Cheapest. Best for beginners.
Cuttings: Fastest. Best for herbs and natives.
Division: Free. Best for established plants.
Layering: Slow. Only for fruit trees.
Final tip: Test one method first. If it fails, try another. No point crying over dead plants.
⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Working with electrical systems, structural modifications, or gas installations carries inherent risks. If you are not confident in your abilities, always engage a licensed professional.
The Gardening Australia video walks you through taking cuttings from native Australian plants, showing exactly where to cut, how many nodes to keep, and a simple hormone‑dip method you can do with basic supplies. It gives you a clear, no‑frills demo you can replicate on a remote property without needing power tools or shop‑bought kits.— Jenny Mills
When to Call a Professional
While many off-grid projects are achievable as DIY, certain situations require licensed professionals:
Electrical work beyond basic 12V DC additions — requires a licensed electrician
Structural modifications to buildings or load-bearing elements
Gas line installation or modification
Solar array installations above safe voltage thresholds
Any work that affects the structural integrity of your property
Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before commencing work.
