About 6 weeks ago I was out limbing up a couple Yoshino cherry trees (Prunus x yedoensis) . I couldn’t let the clippings just go to waste so I thought I would try my hand at rooting a Yoshino cherry from the greenwood cuttings. Previously I’ve only managed to root one Yoshino Cherry from a hardwood cutting and it didn’t make it. Cherry trees are one of my favorite trees for the landscape since they have great flowers in the spring, grow relatively quickly, and can provide some nice shade.
How to propagate a Yoshino Cherry:
I took greenwood cuttings about 6 inches long. Then I removed all the leaves except for one at the top of the cutting. I dipped the end liberally in rooting hormone then stuck the cutting in a pure sand medium. I kept the cuttings moist and in about 6 weeks I had roots. Tenting the cuttings will help to maintain moisture.
My success rate wasn’t as high as I’d hoped as only 1 out of 6 rooted but it definitely gives me hope that I can use this method to make a few more Yoshino cherry trees.
Dave, this is GREAT! I gave a Yoshino Cherry to my daughter last year and I can't believe how beautiful that small tree is now. Fast grower, indeed! I'm going to swing by her house today and take some cuttings so I can try this. Thanks for this timely tip! Hopefully, there will be at least one Yoshino Cherry in my future!
This is a great tip, thanks. Question: How do you keep the cuttings moist if it's in sand?
Kylee,
They are great trees I hope you have good luck on your cuttings. I'm planning on taking a few more this week to see if I can replicate the initial success.
Meemsnyc
I use plastic containers with no drainage. If you monitor them regularly and water the containers when dry it works out OK. I drain off any excess water and leave a damp medium. Tenting the cuttings in a plastic bag can also be a good way to maintain moisture.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us Dave, the roots look pretty healthy. Hope it does well and becomes a gorgeous addition to your landscape. 🙂