Question
I would like to know if it is possible to start a new tree or bush from the cutting of either a hydragea tree or a lilac bush and how you would go about it. Thankyou Pam Varela

Answer
Hi Pam,
Thanx for your question.  Take green stem cuttings of your hydrangea and lilac now with no blooming end.  The cutting should be made from a main branch, sliced with a very sharp knife.  Strip off all of the leaves except for the last two or three.  Get a pot of soil less mix and make it damp but not soggy.  The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone such as Rootone which is available at most nurseries.  Dip the cutting to ensure the cut end is well covered by the rooting hormone.  Stick the cutting into the soil less mix about 1 inch deep.  Place the pot inside a large, clear, plastic baggie and keep it warm.  Temps must be maintained in the mid-70s.  Your cuttings will root in 8-16 weeks.  Check for rooting by probing gently with a pencil near the cutting after 8 weeks.  If there is a wealth of white roots, gently prick the cutting out and plant in a separate pot and put outside if it is not freezing.  Place this pot in a place that is safe from direct sunlight and extremes in hot and cold temps, rain, hail and wind for about 7 days and then, you can plant the cutting out in the garden as long as you have at least 30 days before the first frost.  I hope this helps.
tom