Root Fruit Tree Cuttings in 5 Easy Steps
Rooting fruit tree cuttings is a common method utilized for propagating fruit trees. If you’re looking for a new garden project, then give rooting your fruit tree cuttings a try. There are many different ways to root fruit tree cuttings, but this method has worked for me, while being low cost, and super easy to do.
Things you’ll Need
STEP 1: Make your Cut or Obtain your Cutting
The best time to take a cutting is when the tree is dormant and just getting ready to break bud. When you take a cutting make sure that the cutting is large enough to have 3-4 buds along it. Usually this is around 6-10 inches. I like my cuttings to be no bigger than the width of a pencil. There are options to purchase various fruit tree cuttings online through places like Ebay or Etsy or other nurseries. You may also be able to connect with other gardeners in your area to trade cuttings or acquire cuttings from desired varieties.
STEP 2: Prepare the Cutting
I like to lightly scrape the base of the cutting with my blade to expose some of the green cambium layer. I then dip the cutting into rooting hormone. It’s a good idea to ensure at least one bud will be inserted into the soil, as roots tend to form off those areas.
STEP 3: Planting the Cutting
Soak a peat pod until it has fully expanded. This usually takes a minute or so. Once the peat pod has expanded, use a Q-Tip to poke a hole into the center of the pod where you will insert your cutting. Place the cutting into the hole you created in the pod and make sure the soil has secured the cutting into place. Place the pod with the cutting directly into a plastic cup. Add a tiny amount of water in the base of the cup, mainly to add humidity as it evaporates. Take one of the large kitchen bags and use it to bag the cup with the cutting. Use a twist tie to seal the bag.
STEP 4: Monitor the Cutting
Place the cutting out of direct light until signs of roots and growth have started. In a week, check the pod to ensure that it is still moist, add water as needed. Continue to make sure the pod stays moist throughout the rooting process. After 2-3 weeks, you should start to see signs of life with your cuttings. Roots will start to grow out of the pod and then it is time to pot.
STEP 5: Pot up the Cutting
Once the cutting has started to root, unbag the cup. Take the pod with the cutting out of the cup. Punch several holes in the base of the cup for drainage. Use a soilless seed starting mix to fill the cup and plant your cutting. Place the cutting in a window sill or place that it can start getting light. After a month or more you may began to acclimate your cutting to the outdoors.
With this method anyone can root fruit tree cuttings with ease. I’d recommend starting with Figs, Mulberries, or Pomegranates, which are some of the easiest fruit trees to root from cuttings.
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