Propagation from cuttings

18 years ago

I have just looked around this site and read the instructions from the American Camellia Society on taking cuttings and rooting them. I note the instructions say to take cuttings in the active growing period, from May to August.

I just moved into a neighborhood of houses that are well over 100 years old, and the vacant house across the street from us has an absolute gold mine of camellias, I would say 50 varieties easily. We are acquainted with the current owner, but it is his plan to sell the house soon. Long story somewhat shorter, would it be a complete waste of my time to try to take cuttings now to root, while I have permission from the owner? I'd love to at least mark them with their colors and styles, as well, now while they are blooming.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Comment (1)

forrestal
18 years ago
What an opportunity, and labeling the plants while they are in bloom is a good idea. Instead of cuttings, you may want to try to airlayer some limbs of the ones you like, which will produce a much larger plant sooner. You would need to have access to the plant to remove the layers after a few months so I suppose it depends on how soon the house sells, and assuming the plants are not going anywhere.

You could try cuttings, but it is a long process for the amateur to grow a good sized camellia plant from a cutting.

Another good option is grafting -- and now is the perfect time of year. Check with someone in your local camellia club, whom I am sure would be delighted to help you with these decisions. Send me an email if you would like a contact. Good luck!
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