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Yew trees are popular for their dense, evergreen foliage and their use in hedges and topiary. Propagating yews from cuttings is an effective way to produce new plants that are true to the parent. This guide explains how to harvest yew cuttings for successful propagation.
Understanding Yew Propagation
Yews (genus Taxus) can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting. However, taking cuttings is often preferred because it produces clones of the parent plant, ensuring the new yew retains desired characteristics. The best time to take cuttings is late summer or early autumn when the wood is semi-hardwood.
Selecting the Right Cutting
Choose healthy, disease-free branches that are semi-hardwood. These are typically stems that have matured for a season but are still flexible. Look for new growth that has started to harden but is not fully woody.
Ideal Characteristics of a Cutting
- Approximately 4-6 inches long
- Contains 3-4 leaf nodes
- Has healthy, green foliage
- Free from pests and disease
Harvesting the Cuttings
Follow these steps to harvest yew cuttings:
- Use clean, sharp pruning shears or a knife to make a clean cut just below a leaf node.
- Make sure each cutting has at least two leaf nodes.
- Remove the lower leaves to expose the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
- If desired, dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Preparing Cuttings for Rooting
Prepare a suitable rooting medium, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite or sand. Fill pots with the medium and make a hole in the center with a pencil. Insert the cuttings into the hole, firming the medium around them.
Providing Optimal Conditions
Place the pots in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Maintain high humidity by covering the pots with a plastic bag or using a propagator. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Monitoring and Caring for Cuttings
Check the cuttings regularly for signs of rooting, which typically occurs within a few months. Remove any dead or rotting cuttings promptly. Once roots are well-established, gradually acclimate the new plants to outdoor conditions by removing the plastic cover over time.
Transplanting Yew Seedlings
After the cuttings have developed a strong root system, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden. Choose a site with well-drained soil and partial shade. Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture.
Summary
Harvesting yew cuttings is a rewarding method to propagate these evergreen trees. Selecting healthy semi-hardwood stems, preparing them properly, and providing the right environmental conditions will increase your success rate. With patience and care, you can grow new yew plants that will enhance your landscape for years to come.