How to Transplant Mistletoe

Mistletoe is best known as a Christmas decoration under which couples kiss, as well as a common addition to wreaths and garlands. Because the semiparasitic shrub grows on tree branches "close to the heavens" and never touches the ground, pagans believe it is a pure, holy plant. For better or for worse, conservationists believe that mistletoe may die out by the year 2030, due to the decline of apple orchards where the plant grows. Gardeners tend to avoid caring for the plant, however, due to the damage it causes to its host trees. If you would like to play a part in saving mistletoe, or if you simply wish to remove it from a weakened host tree, you can plant its berries in a different tree. Unfortunately, it is impossible to successfully relocate an entire plant.

Things You'll Need

• Twine

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Prune mistletoe branches from their current host tree and store them in a jar of cold water until you are ready to use the berries. You can also save sprigs of holiday mistletoe in a jar of water.

   • 2

     Squeeze a berry onto the side or bottom of a healthy deciduous fruit tree branch that's approximately 8 inches in diameter. The berry's gel will stick to the branch on its own.

   • 3

     Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to propagate as many plants as you wish.

   • 4

     Tie a piece of twine around the tree branch to mark the mistletoe locations.