QuestionI have an orange tree in my house and want to know if I can cut the top off and root it in water. Also wonder about time of year for repotting it.
Thank you
AnswerYou must cut off a section that is supple; in other words, it is not woody and can be bent slightly and bounce right back. Remove the bottom set of leaves and either root it in water or in a fertile potting soil after dipping the bottom of the stem in a rooting compound. Rooting stimulants can be purchased at most garden centers. You can repot the plant at any time, but late fall is always best. Even if you root it in water, you must eventually transplant it to a pot with a good potting soil. Whether you start it in soil or transplant it, cover the seedling with a light clear plastic for three weeks. This will simulate a mini-greenhouse. After that period, the plant should have established roots in the soil and can then be treated as any other seedling.
I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.
Regards,
Mike