How to Start a Grapefruit Cutting
In the mid-1700s, the grapefruit (Citrus X paradisi) was used primarily as an ornamental tree. The grapefruit tree grows from 15 to 20 feet in height, with a rounded canopy, glossy green leaves and branches with thorns. Grapefruit trees thrive in regions with subtropical climates. In fact, temperature is the biggest factor in how long the tree takes to bear. Grapefruit readily propagates from cuttings taken in the summer. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Sand
- Potting soil
- Nursery pot
- Sharp pruning shears
- Heavy gloves
- Rooting hormone
- Sharp knife or razor blade
- Heat mat
- Misting bottle
Instructions
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1
Combine sand and potting soil in a 1-to-1 ratio and pour it into a nursery pot. Run water over the soil until it is saturated. Use your finger or a pencil to create a planting hole and set the pot aside to drain while you take the cutting.
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2
Choose a grapefruit tree stem that is from the growth flush prior to the current one. This is the wood behind new wood. Cut a 6- to 10-inch length of the stem. Cut off the new growth and dispose of it.
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3
Cut off all the leaves, with the exception of two at the top of the cutting.
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4
Use a sharp knife or razor blade to skin the bottom inch of the cutting. Don't cut deeply into the stem, just remove some of the outer bark.
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5
Pour a small amount of rooting hormone powder onto a plate or piece of waxed paper. Dip the bottom of the cutting into water to moisten 1 inch up the stem. Roll the cutting in the hormone and immediately stick it into the prepared hole in the soil.
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6
Place the heat mat in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight and set the thermostat to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the potted cutting on the mat. Mist the cutting daily with water. It should root within four to eight weeks.
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References
- Photo Credit Zedcor Wholly Owned/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
