How to Propagate a Cleveland Pear

Take hardwood cutting from the Cleveland pear tree during late autumn before the trees are fully dormant. You can also take the cutting in winter, but these are relatively less successful than those taken in fall.

Measure 9- to 24-inch-long sections from the tips of hard, current year growth. Use a sharp pruning scissors to make a straight cut at the base of the cutting. Make a 45-degree angled cut at the top of the cutting.

Select an area of fertile, moist soil in the garden to plant the cuttings. Use a garden fork to creating a line of planting holes by inserting it 6 inches deep into the soil.

Pour an inch of the rooting hormone in a plastic cup. Dip the base of each cutting into the rooting hormone. Rooting hormone is not necessary but helps with the production of roots. Plant the cuttings immediately in individual holes, inserting two-thirds of the length of each cutting.

Firm the soil well around the cuttings and water well. Cuttings will start to produce roots gradually over winter.

Protect the newly rooted cuttings from early spring frost to prevent damage to the foliage. Cover the cuttings with a clear plastic before a hard frost is expected.

Move to a desired location in the garden once plants are stronger in growth.