How to Make a Bare Root From Cuttings
You can cut a tree, shrub or plant to root if you want to multiply your hedges or fruit trees. Most commercial garden operations use propagated stems to create a unique array of plants.
Successful root cuttings can take patience but rewards are well worth the effort. Apple trees can bloom sooner as a cutting, and your azalea could make a nice bonsai for a shelf or counter.
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Things You'll Need
- Planter
- Plastic bag/wrap
- Nutrient enriched potting soil
- Water
- Pruning knife
- Rubbing alcohol
Instructions
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1
Dip the knife into alcohol, ensuring you keep the cut clean and safe for the plant. Make a 45-degree cut, slicing through the without stopping.
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2
Trim off any buds or leaves in the lower third of the stem. This part will be planted to root and should not have flowers trying to form.
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3
Place the cutting into the planter with soil enriched with nutrients. Be careful when choosing your soil; the cutting will not root if the soil has too much nitrogen.
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4
Wrap the planter and the entire plant in plastic wrap or a plastic bag. Tie off and open only to water the plant.
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Water every morning and keep the planter in direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. Do not remove the plant until it has grown to double its size. It should then be strong and productive enough to be placed outside.
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Tips & Warnings
You should cut the branch where it is free from buds, disease or discoloration. The stem must expend all of its energy on growing roots, not repairing itself or flowering.
A young plant will grow roots easier than an older plan. For plants that are semi-mature or fully mature, use what is called a mallet cut. Use a youthful stem and a cross section of mature wood from the same tree or plant. The cutting will resemble an upside-down T.
The environment for the cutting should be kept humid. This will enrich the plant with moisture and keep it strong without drying out.
