Question
Hello again Darlene, and thank you so much for your shared knowledge!  A few more questions:  I will be growing my cuttings in a greenhouse - would you recommend putting cuttings in a mist bed? - I believe I read not to mist them. -?  Even though They'll be in the greenhouse - would you still recommend the fluorescent lighting?  Did you take your cuttings from semi-old or new growth, and did you use any rooting hormones?  Thanks again for your help Darlene......it's highly appreciated!

-Brian
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

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Hello Darlene,
I am a hort student at Montana SU - and I am doing a propagation project, and I have to figure out how to successfully root cuttings from a pencil tree.  I've tried this before, and was unsuccessful.  So far in my research, I have found that you need to clean the cut with water to stop the flow of the milky latex, and dry the cuttings for a week or two - so the wound can heal - before planting.  Also, I think I read that you want to take your cutting from mature growth, rather than new growth.  When I tried to take my previous cuttings, I didn't do any of this - so that could be my problem.  If you have any experience with this particular plant, I would appreciate your guidance!  Any info. would help.  I'm having trouble finding good information on the propagation of this plant.  Again, the plant is Euphorbia tirucalli - common names: pencil tree, milkbush, pencil euphorbia......  Thanks for your time Darlene!

Sincerely,
Brian
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Brian,

I love that plant and have taken cuttings sevaral times successfully. Let them dry for 3-4 days, not two weeks. Don't take the cuttings from really old growth. Your cuttings should not be longer than 6-10 inches. It would be better to wait until after April 1st when the days are longer but your professor may not agree. If not try to put them under flourescent lights ( about 12 inches above the cuttings). Also root them in slightly moist sand. If you have more questions write again. Good luck.

Darlene

Answer
Brian,

I used semi old growth, baiscally in spring before ne growth had started but used tip cuttings. Do not mist them. You wouldn't mist cactus and this succulent should be treated like a cactus. You didn't say where you are, if the days are 14 hours long you do not need extra light, but if they are shorter you do. I didn't use rooting hormones, you might try one with and one without and see which roots faster or if it has any effect. Good luck.

Darlene