Question
We're going to move in about one year.  My wife's father gave her a feather leaf maple that is now too large to move.  We want to propagate a starter from this plant and take it with us.  How do we do it?
Thanks

Answer
Hi Kurt,
Thanx for your question.  There is a lot of debate going on about the viability of cuttings from ornamental maples.  Some say it works others say your bound for failure.  I've tried once and failed but that was just one try.  Take softwood (green, make sure the cutting bends but doesn't break, so it will be strong enough.) about 6 inches long.  Take all the leaves off but the last two or three.  Dip the cut end into rooting hormone.  Stick this end 1 inch deep into warm, moist sand.  Keep the sand warm and moist as this encourages rooting.  Keep the atmosphere humid was misting a couple times a day.  Rooting may take a long time.  It could start as early as 8 weeks and it could take 9 months.  It depends on heat, humidity and the cutting's vigor.  When you see new leaves or buds on your cutting you'll know it's ready and you can gently probe around it to check for a hearty root system.  Then transplant into separate pots and allow the seedlings to get more robust before taking them outdoors.  Make sure it is past the last frost and place the seedlings in the shade for 10 days.  After that, plant in the desired places.  I hope this helps.
Tom