The Pittosporum is an evergreen shrub prized for its dense foliage and fragrant flowers reminiscent of orange blossoms, like the Pittosporum tobira. Native to temperate and subtropical regions, it adapts perfectly to mild climates where it is frequently used for hedges or as a standalone specimen. Pittosporum propagates easily from cuttings. This allows you to faithfully reproduce the characteristics of the parent plant. Discover the step-by-step guide to successfully taking pittosporum cuttings and enriching your garden with new plantings!
When to take pittosporum cuttings?
The ideal time to take pittosporum cuttings is in late summer, typically between late July and early September. At this time of year, the shrub produces what are called semi-hardwood stems: shoots that have begun to harden but are not yet fully woody. In other words, they are in transition between the soft greenwood of spring and the hard wood of autumn. This intermediate stage is perfect for cuttings, as the stems offer both enough flexibility for handling and sufficient resistance to encourage rooting.
What type of cutting for pittosporum?
Pittosporum cuttings are best taken using the 'closed case' method (placing the cuttings in a confined environment, usually under plastic or a cloche). This technique maintains constant humidity and warmth around the cutting, promoting rooting while preventing it from drying out.
How to take pittosporum cuttings?
Required materials
- A sharp knife or secateurs, previously disinfected with 70°C alcohol to avoid disease transmission
- Pots or biodegradable containers
- Seed or cutting compost
- A pencil
- A spray bottle
- A mini greenhouse, plastic bottles cut in half, or a plastic bag
Step-by-step guide to taking cuttings using the closed case method
- In late summer, select semi-hardwood shoot tips, about 15 cm long, just below a node.
- Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting to reduce transpiration and encourage rooting.
- Fill pots with seed compost. Lightly moisten the substrate before planting.
- Using the pencil, insert the stems 3-4 cm deep. Gently firm the substrate around the cuttings to ensure good contact.
- Cover the pots with a transparent cover (half plastic bottle, plastic bag secured with an elastic band, or small greenhouse) to create a warm, humid environment. Ensure the plastic doesn't touch the cuttings directly.
- Place the pots in a bright spot without direct sunlight.
- Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged by misting regularly.
- Ventilate occasionally to prevent mould.
- After 6-8 weeks, check for root formation by gently tugging the cutting. If you feel resistance, roots have developed.
What to do after taking cuttings?
Once the pittosporum cuttings have established, transplant them into individual pots to give them more space to grow. Keep them over winter in a cool place, ideally between 5 and 10°C, to respect their dormant period. In spring, gradually resume watering and monitor their growth.
The following autumn, plant your young pittosporums in the ground or in large pots, depending on your garden plans.
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