Propagating cherry trees from cuttings offers a rewarding way to expand a garden or replicate a favorite tree. This method involves taking a section of a parent plant and encouraging it to develop roots, ultimately growing into a new, genetically identical tree. Unlike growing from seed, which can result in variations, propagation through cuttings ensures the new tree possesses the same characteristics as the original, including fruit quality and growth habits.
Choosing the Right Time and Material
The timing for taking cherry tree cuttings significantly influences rooting success. Gardeners can choose between softwood cuttings, taken from new, flexible growth in late spring to early summer, and hardwood cuttings, collected from mature, dormant stems in late fall or winter. Softwood cuttings are taken from new, flexible growth and bend without breaking. Hardwood cuttings are collected from mature, dormant stems and are firm, snapping easily.
Selecting healthy parent material is equally important. Choose a disease-free, vigorous tree, preferably one under five years of age. Cuttings from older trees should come from the youngest branches available. Ideal cutting material will have visible leaf nodes, which are crucial for root development.
Taking Cherry Tree Cuttings
Preparing to take cherry tree cuttings requires specific tools and careful execution. Use sharp, sterile pruning shears to make clean cuts, sterilizing them with rubbing alcohol before and after use to prevent damage and disease.
For softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings, aim for 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) in length, or 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) for hardwood, with a pencil-like diameter. Make the cut just below a node, as this area contains concentrated growth hormones. Remove leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting to prevent rot and reduce water loss. Lightly scraping the bark at the base can promote root development. Dip the cut end into powdered rooting hormone.
Planting and Establishing Cuttings
After preparing the cuttings, immediate planting in a suitable medium is essential. A well-draining rooting medium, such as a mixture of perlite and peat moss, coco coir, sand, or vermiculite, is recommended to prevent waterlogging and encourage root development. Ensure the potting mix is uniformly moist before planting.
Use small pots or trays with drainage holes. Create a 2-inch deep hole in the medium before inserting the cutting. Plant the cutting deep enough so at least one node is buried, then gently firm the medium around the base. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the medium. Create a humid environment, important for rooting, by covering the pot with a plastic bag or dome.
Caring for Cuttings
Consistent care is important for successful rooting. Place containers in bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight. An optimal temperature range for rooting is 65-75°F (18-24°C). A seedling warming mat can provide bottom heat.
Maintaining consistent moisture in the rooting medium is important; avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot. The medium should remain moist but not waterlogged. Mist cuttings one to two times a day to maintain humidity. Periodically open the plastic covering for air circulation and to prevent mold.
Rooting takes several weeks to a few months. Signs of successful rooting include new leaf growth, though new leaves can appear before roots. A gentle tug on the cutting will reveal resistance if roots have begun to form.
Transitioning Rooted Cuttings
Once cherry tree cuttings have developed a robust root system, they are ready for the next stage of growth. This typically occurs when roots are visible through drainage holes or the cutting has produced three to four sets of new leaves. The process of gradually acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions is known as hardening off.
Begin by removing the plastic covering and placing pots in a sheltered, semi-shady spot outdoors for a week or two, gradually increasing exposure to direct sunlight and wind. This helps the young trees adjust to the outdoor environment from their humid, controlled rooting conditions. After hardening off, transplant the rooted cuttings into larger pots or their permanent garden location. When transplanting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the tree is planted at the same depth as in the pot. Provide initial watering after transplanting to help the soil settle.