Rooting Cherry Tree Cuttings from Storm-Downed Branches

Wind-fallen cherry branches with swelling buds can be rooted, though success varies.

Protocol

1. Take 6–8 inch cuttings; remove all but top 2–3 leaves.
2. Cut cleanly with a sharp knife.
3. Dip base in rooting hormone (e.g., Rootone).
4. Insert 2 inches into moist soilless mix.
5. Provide bottom heat (70–75°F).
6. Roots form in ~8 weeks; check by gentle probing.
7. Once rooted, pot up and harden off 10 days in shade before planting out.

Note: Most fruit trees are grafted; rooted cuttings may lack disease resistance or dwarfing traits of the original tree.