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Oregon Grape propagation #867556

Asked May 08, 2024, 11:52 AM EDT

My Oregon Grape needs to be pruned back now - it is reaching the roof of the roof extension I have for rain protection. I don't want to waste all that I have to cut off and want to propagate the cuttings. I know that fall is the best time to do that, but...can I do it now? What is the best way to do that?

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi, 
Thank you for using Ask Extension.

For propagation, I'm going to recommend the reference book _Propagating Plants - How to create new plants for free_ Editor Alan Toogood.  I read the entry for mahonia and you can do leaf-bud or semi-ripe cuttings mid-summer through fall.  Hardwood cuttings should only be done in winter.  

For cutting pack the plant, it may be better to prune out the oldest stems from the base of the plant and see if that doesn't take care of the tallest stems.  If you cut the stems down, it will likely promote branching or suckers which may make the plant wider.
Regards and happy gardening! Replied May 09, 2024, 6:07 PM EDT
Thank you Sara,

I did cut out a few of the tallest branches and will wait to do any propagating.  The book does look helpful, but...I won't be propagating enough plants to justify buying it.  The library doesn't have it either, but it really looks nicely laid out for those that are interested and have the room to propagate!  

Ann Anderson
207 NW 8th St.
Gresham, OR 97030
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From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> on behalf of Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Thursday, May 9, 2024 3:07 PM
To: bebeann_pdx <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Oregon Grape propagation (#0137477)
 

Dear bebeann_pdx, here's the response to your question:

Hi, 
Thank you for using Ask Extension.

For propagation, I'm going to recommend the reference book _Propagating Plants - How to create new plants for free_ Editor Alan Toogood.  I read the entry for mahonia and you can do leaf-bud or semi-ripe cuttings mid-summer through fall.  Hardwood cuttings should only be done in winter.  

For cutting pack the plant, it may be better to prune out the oldest stems from the base of the plant and see if that doesn't take care of the tallest stems.  If you cut the stems down, it will likely promote branching or suckers which may make the plant wider.

Need to reply to the expert? Click the link below, or simply reply to this email.

Click here to view #0137477

Regards and happy gardening!

Sara

OSU Master Gardener Volunteer


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The Question Asker Replied May 13, 2024, 1:16 PM EDT
Hi Ann, 
I searched for extension references on hardwood cuttings and found this from Washington https://depts.washington.edu/propplnt/Chapters/Cuttings.pdf.  I also found a workshop this winter from Washington County master gardeners https://washingtoncountymastergardeners.org/event/plant-propagation-by-hardwood-and-softwood-stem-cuttings/
Regards and happy gardening! Replied May 14, 2024, 6:08 PM EDT

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