Question
I have a 15-20 year old dogwood tree that unfortunately has to be cut down to build an addition.  We tried a number of places to see if we could move it and all said with the size it was extremely unlikely that it would survivie or that it just couldn't be done.  Normally I would take the risk but the price just to give it a go was around $1000 minimally. At any rate I would like to try and propagate a few of the branches.  The ground has been frozen for weeks now and the tree is definitely dormant.  So my questions: Is this even possible with a dogwood and at this time of the year? If so what is the best method to use for success.  As heartbroken as I am about loosing the tree it would make me feel a little better to preserve a part of it if possible. Thanks!

Answer
Kristy, you can only propagate from cuttings that are green and supple. Woody cuttings will not root. Unfortunately, given this time of year, all the tree has left after going dormant are woody branches.

My advise is to wait until spring when the tree produces fresh shoots. I realize you may not be able to wait depending on when you are building the addition, but this is really your only option.

If you can delay until spring, the process is actually very easy. Simply prune off a 6-8 inch supple shoot. Remove all of the leaves with the exception of the top set. Dip the cutting in a rooting compound (this product is readily available at most garden centers). Stick the cutting in a 6" pot filled with fertile potting soil. Water the soil deeply until it drains out of the bottom drainage hole. Cover the pot with a clear, lightweight plastic, and place the pot in a window facing toward the southern part of the home. The cutting should root within three to four weeks, and can then be cared for as you would any other seedling before transplanting in your yard early next fall.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike