Many shrubs and trees root well using this method. Since plants are making most of their growth at this time of year it also follows that they will also make good root growth. I like to take cuttings in the morning and place the stem in water for about an hour while I prepare the pots to house them. If you plan on taking cuttings in another location, bring a plastic bag so you can keep the cuttings sealed in the bag until you get it home. Cut the stems at an angle to give the cuttings more cut surface to form their roots.
Most cuttings root best if the cut is made inch below the leaf node.
Strip the leaves off the lower parts of the stems leaving only the top leaves. If the leaves are large on top cut them leaving only half a leaf. With a spoon handle or pencil make a depression in the soil for the stem to fit into. If you use a rooting hormone first dip the stem in the powder then slip the stem into the hole you made in the soil. After placing the cuttings in the soil, firm the soil around the roots.