Hopefully I can get my question across well enough.
If we take a cutting from a branch and actually get it to root, how does it know to become a full fledged tree?
I would think that a branch, that wasn't going to do much but hang there, would know to become a tree.
Does this make sense?
I was thinking about this because I have a cutting from a Sanguinelli Blood Orange that is rooted, but shows no real sign of growing. It looks great, just not growing at all.
Any thoughts?
Darren

Generally, this is a problem with tree cuttings propagation, including air layerring, not suited to most trees if you expect a full tree form. Major problems include sluggish branching and growth and poor anchorage. It is best to grow seedling and graft unto it. Seedlings have very good anchorage and well defined root system that can support vigorous growth.

But sometimes, it also depends on the cultivar. Lisbons on the other hand would always push out and tend to grow to a tree like form. It has vigorous adventitious roots that helps a lot. Some apples for example would have strong roots even if propagated via cuttings. Even some plum rootstocks are also propagated by cuttings and yet we get very good trees from them, same with other citrus rootstocks.

Take into account also the objectives of other home growers. Some of them would want their trees to grow bushy and slow growth but still productive, and this is an instance where trees propagated by cuttings would fit the bill.

Does anyone have advice (or a website) that can help me with getting hardwood cuttings to root? Specifically, I am trying to root mulberry and figs. Thanks.

I have a very large mulberry tree growing along my fence line, I could send you some cuttings from it. I don't know what variety they are but their red. sweet and juicy. I haven't checked but there could be some seedlings growing around the tree. I will share/trade these with anyone who wants a few cuttings or seedlings if I find them.
Andi

Thanks for the offer to send cuttings, but my problem is getting them to root. What successful methods do people use?

look at the fruits and tropicals propagation forum in this site. I posted a very good link there.

Okay, here's the link:

link

I myself love the mallet type of cuttting.