cuttings in the winter??

TinyTree

Hey All, I took some cuttings from my japanese maple a month ago and all but 1 didn't make it. The survivor is now sitting in a container with a baggy over it for humidity. I'm curious to know what do I do with it now that winter is approaching. Obviously it doesn't go dormant like its parent will, so do I bring it in for the winter?

Thanks

Advertisement

rockm

Not obvious at all. This cutting will require dormancy, just like its "parent" will. Cutting are not babies of a parent, they are, in fact, the same plant. Cuttings are clones with the exact same genetic material, age (of the branch they were taken form) and have the same requirements as the "parent" plant.

You've left yourself in a difficult position--You can't bring it in for the winter. It will probably die. It also probably doesn't have enough root mass to protect itself completely from winter elements.This is why cuttings from temperate zone plants are best done in spring or early summer.

You will have to find a place outdoors that remains above freezing, or at least doesn't experience extreme temperatures. Mulch, overhead shelter and protection from the wind will also help.