Question
I recently asked a question about planting cottonwood seeds. My next question is when I can expect the tree to seed? The dying one is producing seed, but none of the others near by are. I would like to take seeds from a healthy tree if I can...

Also, do cottonwoods root well from softwood cuttings? I know you are a seed guy but it doesn't hurt to ask!

Answer
Hi Amanda,
Thanx for your question.  Seed dispersal starts in May through July in the South and June though mid-July in the North.

Take 6 inch cuttings from the ends of semi-green wood in summer.  A rooting hormone applied to the end of the cutting will help aid rooting.  Keep them in warm, moist sand and mist them two or three times a day.  I would enclose the growing container inside a clear plastic bag to help maintain humidity.  Check for roots at the end of summer.

I hope this helps.
Tom