How to Get Plum Tree Cuttings

Propagating plum trees and other fruit trees by cuttings can be a difficult procedure. This is because the cuttings must be kept moist during the rooting process. To be successful in rooting the cuttings a mist system should be used. Misters will keep the cuttings moist. But, before the rooting process begins, cuttings must be taken from the parent plum tree.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gardening shears
• Liquid soap
• Plum tree

1. Wash the gardening shear blades using hot water and soap. Dry thoroughly to prevent rusting. Gardening shears should always be clean before using, to avoid the spread of disease.

2. Plan to take the cuttings after the plum tree has flowered. This might be early June, or mid to late summer, depending on the region. The cuttings will be referred to as softwood cuttings.

3. Locate new stem growth along the base of the tree.

4. Cut a 4-6 inch segment of the new growth from the tree, cutting below the node.

References

• NDSU Extension Service; Questions on: Plum; Ron Smith
• UW-Extension; Propagation of Fruit Crop Plants; Robert Tomesh;
• University of Georgia; Propagating Fruit Trees Deciduous to Georgia; M. Ferree and G. Krewer