Pittosporum Tobira 'Wheeler's Dwarf' Propagation

Softwood Cuttings

• Propagating "Wheeler's Dwarf" Japanese mock orange by taking softwood cuttings is a way to root young, flexible stems from the current year's growth. Also known as semi-hardwood cuttings, the branches flex easily and aren't yet completely firm. "Wheeler's Dwarf" requires a well-draining, gritty potting mixture containing sand, perlite or vermiculite to prevent rot. Dipping the bottom of the stem in rooting hormone before planting is critical, often making the difference between rooting failure and success. Place the container out of direct sun and keep the potting mixture moist but not wet. Rooting usually takes between eight and 12 weeks.

Hardwood Cuttings

• A relatively difficult propagation method, hardwood cuttings taken from evergreen shrubs benefit from humidity provided by a greenhouse or plastic tent. Otherwise, the cuttings quickly lose moisture through their leaves. In greenhouses, the cuttings, which measure about 8 inches, are often planted upright in pots filled with coarse sand or another loose, fast-draining potting medium. In cool climates, the cuttings root well in cold frames or covered nursery beds. Hardwood cuttings taken between late fall and midwinter usually root in six to 10 weeks, although bottom heat may speed the process.

Seeds

• "Wheeler's Dwarf" Japanese mock orange seeds germinate quickly when planted in late winter. Gather the fresh seeds when the pods split and wash the seeds in soapy water to remove the sticky coating. The seeds need a gritty potting medium to promote drainage and a plastic bag or tent to keep the potting mixture consistently warm and moist. "Wheeler's Dwarf" Japanese mock orange seeds germinate in a shady area and temperatures between 59 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Move the plants to individual pots when you can handle the seedlings without damaging the roots. The young shrubs usually tolerate planting outdoors by the first spring.

Simple Layering

• Simple layering, done in spring, involves rooting a branch still attached to the parent plant. To propagate "Wheeler's Dwarf" Japanese mock orange by simple layering, choose a long, flexible stem growing on the lower part of the plant, then bend the branch to the ground at a point about 18 inches from the tip of the branch. To help rooting, dig the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches at the point where the branch touches the ground and work in a shovelful of compost or fine bark chips. A piece of U-shaped, galvanized wire holds the branch to the amended soil. When the branch forms roots and shows new growth -- usually after about a year -- sever the branch from the parent plant. At the point, you can plant the branch in a large container or in its permanent place in your garden.