Juniper is a grateful tree that can be easily propagated by cuttings. However, you need some patience until the shoots have developed new roots. This only works under the same conditions.
The shoots for the cuttings propagation should be lignified
The propagation of cuttings takes place in these steps:
- defoliation
- Incise
- Set
- rooting
defoliation
When topiary, good material for the propagation of cuttings is often obtained. If you find woody shoots that are 20 centimeters long, you can use them as cuttings.
To keep water evaporation to a minimum, remove most of the green leaves and shoots. Due to the missing roots, the cutting is not yet able to absorb enough water to supply all parts of the plant. It would dry out too quickly before new roots could form.
Incise
Cut the bottom two-thirds of the cutting lengthwise until you can see the white cambium beneath the bark. Peel off the bark in strips, being careful not to damage part of the bark. This lower part of the cutting is later in the water or substrate and absorbs moisture. You can use a sharp knife for particularly woody cuttings. Softer shoots can be worked on with a fingernail.
Set
Put the prepared shoots in a sandy substrate or a glass of water. The scratched part should be completely surrounded by earth or water. The green shoots and leaves are free and well ventilated to prevent rot.
Place the jar in a warm and bright location out of direct sunlight. If you have placed the cuttings in substrate, you must ensure even watering and high humidity. The cuttings must not dry out.
rooting
If you cut the cuttings in spring and kept them constantly moist, the first roots will develop in the coming fall. Under unfavorable conditions, two summers can pass before the cuttings are rooted. Success is higher with younger shoots than with old wood. The cuttings provide perfect material for growing a bonsai. After two to three years, the young plants are planted out in the garden.