How to Root Eucalyptus Tree Cuttings
Eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus globulus labill) is a tree native to Australia with stringy bark and aromatic leaves. Eucalyptus oil, taken from the leaves, is used medicinally to treat lung disorders, including asthma and bronchitis. Eucalyptus is also the staple food for Australian creatures such as koalas.
Cut off some semi-woody stems from a eucalyptus tree. The growth should be from the recent growing season but at least 8 weeks old. Verify that the cutting selected has at least one leaf bud on its branch. If it already has leaves sprouting, break of the leaf, but leave the leaf's budding point.
- Eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus globulus labill) is a tree native to Australia with stringy bark and aromatic leaves.
Dip the bottom tip of the cutting in rooting hormone for 30 seconds.
Fill a small terra cotta pot with perlite and place the cutting into the perlite. The cutting should be positioned so it stands erect with the end that was dipped in the rooting hormone tucked into the perlite.
Set the pot onto a saucer filled with water and allow the pot to absorb the water through its bottom hole. Enough water is absorbed when the top of the perlite feels moist. Using this reverse filling technique will prevent the rooting hormone from washing off the cutting.
Cover the pot with a plastic bag to hold in moisture and place in a warm place. The ideal temperature for rooting is 80 to 90 degrees F.
- Dip the bottom tip of the cutting in rooting hormone for 30 seconds.
- The cutting should be positioned so it stands erect with the end that was dipped in the rooting hormone tucked into the perlite.
Check on the cutting every few days and keep it moist. After four weeks, gently tug at the cutting, if it shows some resistance, it has rooted.
Remove the cutting from the perlite and place it in a pot with potting soil.
Root Eucalyptus Tree Cuttings
Eucalyptus trees have glossy, green leaves and an aromatic fragrance. Originally from Australia, eucalyptus grow best in hardiness zones 7 through 11. They grow quickly, with some growing up to 6 feet a year and can grow up to 40 feet tall. They are adaptable to a variety of soil conditions and are very drought tolerant. Eucalyptus trees can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings, though they do not root easily. Tap off any excess from the stem. Fill a planting flat with a rooting mixture of equal amounts of coarse sand and potting soil. Tent the cuttings with a clear plastic bag. Watch for growth in four to 10 weeks.
- Check on the cutting every few days and keep it moist.
- After four weeks, gently tug at the cutting, if it shows some resistance, it has rooted.
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Writer Bio
Steven White is a privately contracted software engineer and efficiency analyst. He has more than five years of experience providing technical support for AT&T broadband customers. Along with his technology background, White enjoys carpentry and plumbing.
