Question
I enjoy your site.  It is very informative.  I have a question.  We cut our own Christmas tree this year.  I believe it's a yellow pine.  We kept it well watered, and lo and behold, it started to sprout!  Is there any way we could propagate this tree?

Answer
Irma, my suggestion would be to propagate with cuttings.

Cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Avoid growth that has turned woody. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. This product can be purchased at most garden centers. Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix. Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting. Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic. Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window seal or under fluorescent lighting.    

After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem. If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering and be sure to keep the soil moist. The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.      

I hope this helps. Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.      

Regards,        

Mike