How to propagate lemon trees through cuttings - 18 tips
Consider the following steps when considering to propagate lemon trees through cuttings:
Select a healthy, mature lemon tree to take cuttings from.
Use a sharp, clean pair of shears or a knife to take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from the tree. Make sure the cuttings have at least one leaf node (the point where the leaves attach to the stem).
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
Fill a small container with a mixture of potting soil and sand, and insert the cutting into the soil, making sure that at least one leaf node is buried.
Water the cutting well and cover the container with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect.
Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight, and keep the soil consistently moist.
In about 4 to 6 weeks, roots will have formed and new growth will appear, indicating that the cutting has taken root. At this point, you can transplant it into a larger pot or into the ground.
Additional tips for propagating lemon trees through cuttings include:
Make sure the cutting you choose is disease-free and healthy. Diseased or damaged cuttings will not root as easily.
Choose a stem that is not too woody, as woody stems are less likely to root.
Use a well-draining potting soil, as lemon trees do not like to be in soggy soil.
Keep the humidity high around the cutting by placing a plastic bag over the container or using a humidifier.
Keep the cutting out of direct sunlight while it is rooting. Bright, indirect light is best.
Be patient, as it can take several weeks for roots to form.
Once the cutting has taken root, it's important to gradually acclimate it to the outdoor conditions before transplanting it into the ground.
Provide regular watering, fertilization and proper care to establish a healthy root system and a strong plant.
Remember that propagating plants can be challenging and some cuttings may not take root. Keep trying and always have a backup plan.