To propagate a Black Cherry tree, the most common method is by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, treating the base with rooting hormone, and planting them in a well-draining potting mix with consistent moisture and indirect sunlight until roots develop; alternatively, you can also propagate Black Cherry trees through grafting, using a compatible rootstock and scion during the dormant season (late winter/early spring).
Key steps for propagating Black Cherry with cuttings:
Select cuttings: Choose healthy, semi-hardwood stems from a vigorous, disease-free tree, around 4-6 inches long.
Cut properly: Make a clean cut just below a leaf node.
Remove leaves: Strip off the lower leaves to prevent rot.
Apply rooting hormone: Dip the cut end of the cutting into rooting hormone.
Plant in medium: Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining propagation mix.
Provide care: Keep the potting mix moist, provide indirect sunlight, and maintain a warm temperature until roots develop.
Important considerations:
Timing: Taking cuttings in late summer or early fall generally provides the best results.
Grafting: If you want to maintain specific characteristics of a particular Black Cherry variety, grafting onto a compatible rootstock is recommended.
Seed propagation: While possible, growing Black Cherry from seed can result in variations in the final tree as the genetics may not be consistent.