Cuttings will root just fine right now - of course, that is, if you use last year's (or older) wood. Last year I rooted quite a few cuttings well into May here in Mississippi. I rooted some in cups of vermiculite (inside in a humidity-controlled plastic box), and I rooted some by simply sticking them in a sandy potting soil in pots (with a little powdered rooting hormone). After potting and watering them I simply put them in the shade. I did not start any of these in bags, but I'm sure they would root easily that way also. The rate of success for me with these was much better than with dormant cuttings. Regarding leaving the cuttings outside in the shade that works just fine here where humidity averages over 90% in the mornings and just under 60% in the afternoons. However, if you live in a drier climate this obviously won't work for you. The cuttings need humidity. I think cuttings will root just about any time, but right now is probably a pretty good time with everything being dialed into growth with the plants. Good luck.
Henry