How to Root Cherry Laurel Cuttings
If you love cherry laurel plants and want to propagate more of them, rooting cuttings is a great way to expand your collection. Rooting cherry laurel cuttings is a simple and rewarding process that can be done with just a few basic supplies. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to successfully root cherry laurel cuttings.
Supplies You Will Need
- Sharp pruning shears
- Rooting hormone
- Small containers
- Well-draining potting mix
- Plastic bags
- Watering can
Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Cuttings
Choose healthy, young branches from your cherry laurel plant to take cuttings from. It is best to select branches that are not flowering and have plenty of leaves. Using sharp pruning shears, take several 6-inch cuttings from the tips of the branches.
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of each cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top. This will help the cutting focus its energy on rooting rather than supporting excess foliage.
Step 2: Applying Rooting Hormone
Dip the cut end of each cherry laurel cutting into rooting hormone to encourage root development. Make sure to tap off any excess hormone before planting the cutting in the potting mix.
Step 3: Planting the Cuttings
Fill small containers with well-draining potting mix, and make a hole in the center of each container with a pencil. Plant the cuttings in the holes, gently pressing the soil around them to secure them in place.
Water the cuttings thoroughly and place a plastic bag over each container to create a mini greenhouse environment. This will help retain moisture and encourage root growth.
Step 4: Caring for the Cuttings
Place the containers in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Check the moisture levels regularly and water as needed to keep the potting mix moist but not waterlogged.
After a few weeks, you should start to see roots forming on the cuttings. Once the roots are well-established, you can transplant the young cherry laurel plants into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Conclusion
Rooting cherry laurel cuttings is a simple and effective way to propagate these beautiful plants. With the right supplies and a little patience, you can expand your cherry laurel collection and enjoy their beauty for years to come.
