Rerooting a tree branch is a quick and easy way to clone a tree. Do it right, and you’ll eventually have a healthy new tree. You can grow various deciduous and evergreen trees from cuttings.
In this post, we outline how to reroot a tree branch the right way, as advised by Angleton’s professional tree service.
Select a Proper Tree Branch
Rerooting a tree branch clones the parent plant. The plants that eventually grow from the cuttings become identical to the parent tree, so you want to choose a healthy branch from which to take the cuttings.
Branches from trees less than a year old have a higher success rate of growing new trees and making the best identical clones.
Prepare the Branch
Once you identify a healthy branch, make a clean cut using a sharp utensil at the base of the branch at a 45° angle. You want to cut it below a bud and as close to the trunk as possible. The best tree branches for cuttings range in size from six to ten inches, with a diameter like that of a pencil.
Cutting the branch at an angle makes the bottom wider, allowing for the branch to take up more water and develop more roots. If you want to increase your odds of success, try rerooting several rather than one branch.
Strip the Cutting
Carefully remove or cut off any leaves or needles within two or three inches of the cutting. You don’t want any leaves or needles below the propagating medium.
If you’re rerooting a branch from a hardwood tree, wounding the last inch above the cut with vertical cuts on either side will help it absorb more water and nutrients.
Use a Rooting Hormone Powder
Pour some hormone powder into a clean, shallow dish or saucer and dip the cut branches into the hormone. Cinnamon powder may also work well as an organic alternative. Either option will give the fresh cut a better chance to sprout new roots.
Knowing how to reroot a tree branch comes in handy. Most times, you can still come out with a healthy plant without the hormone powder or cinnamon.
Use Clean Water or Potting Mix Soil
You have various options to choose from as your rooting medium. If you choose to use water, place the branch in a container and add water. Remember to change the water at least once weekly until the roots develop.
If using soil, plant the cuttings in well-draining soil under indirect sunlight. In the right conditions, roots will start to develop after a few weeks. Once the roots develop and grow, you can transfer the rerooted branch into the ground to give it enough space to grow and develop.
Remember to water the plant regularly and ensure it has enough sunlight and nutrients for growth. A balanced fertilizer may help you keep sufficient nutrients in the soil to support tree growth. Proper pruning will also support its growth and development and help maintain a good tree structure.
Fruit trees such as apples, blueberries, and peaches grow well from cuttings, as do many deciduous trees like oaks, willow, and maples. Other popular trees you can grow from cuttings include:
- Juniper
- Fig
- Locust
- Olive
- Pine
- Tulip
Contact Your Trusted Tree Experts
If you need a dependable tree care company in Angleton, TX, or nearby areas, get superior tree services from Country Trees LLC. Our certified, accredited, and professional team offers several tree care services, including:
- Tree trimming and pruning
- Tree fertilizing
- Arborist consultations
- 24-Hour storm damage
Call us today at (979) 824-0325 for more professional tips on how to reroot a tree branch or trim lower branches on young trees.