Can You Propagate a Bradford Pear Tree From Cuttings?

Cutting Type

• The cuttings that are used for the propagation of Bradford pear are referred to as tip cuttings, according to Marie Harrison in "Flowering Shrubs and Small Trees for the South." As the name suggests, tip cuttings are sections of stems taken from the tips of non-flowering, semi-mature to mature shoots. Tip cuttings are an effective means of propagation because the cuttings generally produce roots easily even without the use of rooting hormones.

Rooting Medium

• Prior to taking the cuttings, prepare a rooting medium for planting them. Rooting mediums help to provide moisture, oxygen and mechanical support to the cuttings. A variety of rooting mediums are commercially available but equal amounts of peat, perlite or sand or fine gravel serve equally well. Fill a small pot with the rooting medium.

Taking Cuttings

• Select healthy shoots of the Bradford pear tree for taking tip cuttings. The recommended time to take cuttings is anytime between early summer and fall. Tip cuttings do not root very well when taken at any other time of year. Measure 8- to 10-inch-long sections from the tips and make simple cuts using sharp, clean scissors.

Planting

• Remove all leaves from the lower half of the cuttings. Plant the tip cuttings immediately into the prepared pot using three to four cuttings per pot. Insert the cuttings about 2 inches deep and water well. Put the entire pot in a large, clear plastic bag and close the top. Place in a bright, warm area out of direct sunlight. Open the bag every three to four days and water enough to keep the soil moist. Cuttings generally take a few weeks to root.