Propagating a Sentimental Lilac Tree from Cuttings

Your mother's lilac can live on through cuttings. Pruning for propagation won't harm the tree—it's standard maintenance.

Simple Cutting Method (Spring)

1. Cut 6–8 inch shoots from healthy, non-flowering growth.
2. Remove lower leaves; keep 2–3 sets at top.
3. Dip base in rooting hormone (powder/gel).
4. Stick 1 inch deep in moist potting mix.
5. Cover pot with clear plastic bag (humidity dome).
6. Place in indirect light (east window or under fluorescents).
7. At 2 weeks, tug gently—resistance = roots.
8. Remove cover gradually; keep moist. Pot up when rooted.

Key Points

• Take 5–10 cuttings—success varies.
• Use clean tools; label with date.
• Softwood (spring) roots better than hardwood.
• Mother tree benefits from the light pruning.

This Easter, give your mom a rooted piece of her own tree—a living memory that grows.