How to propagate the dawn redwood? An overview of cutting and seed propagation methods

The dawn redwood is a highly ornamental plant, and many people in our country grow it. However, as more people grow it, questions about its propagation have also become a concern. So how do you propagate the dawn redwood? What are the propagation methods for the dawn redwood? Below, the editor will walk you through it.

I. How to propagate the dawn redwood

As for how to propagate the dawn redwood, it mainly comes down to two methods: seed propagation and cutting propagation. As long as they are done properly, the survival rates of both methods are relatively high. As for how exactly to carry out these two dawn redwood propagation methods, there is a detailed introduction below. Let's take a look.

II. Overview of dawn redwood propagation methods (seed propagation)

1. Seed collection

The fruit of the dawn redwood generally matures around August each year. Once it has matured, we can harvest it. After harvesting, we can take out the seeds inside, wash them clean, dry them, and then store them until around March of the following year for sowing.

2. Seed germination

Before propagating the dawn redwood by sowing, we first need to germinate the seeds. We can soak the seeds in warm water for 1-2 days. Once the seeds begin to absorb water and swell, we can take them out and sow them. This allows the seeds to sprout faster.

3. Sowing method

Because dawn redwood seeds are small, when sowing we can use a toothpick dipped in water to pick up the seeds and place them into the soil, then cover them with 1cm of soil and water them. Be sure to water thoroughly in one go. After about half a month, the seeds will sprout.

III. Overview of dawn redwood propagation methods (cutting propagation)

Cutting propagation is a relatively commonly used method for the dawn redwood. This propagation method has been tested countless times, and the survival rate is quite high. Dawn redwood cutting propagation is mainly divided into hardwood cuttings and softwood cuttings. The specific operation methods are described below. Let's continue reading.

1. Hardwood cuttings

First, we need to select vigorous branches from a 2-3 year old mother plant to use as cuttings, trim the branches to about 10-15cm, then insert them into softened soil. After about 15-20 days they will take root. The survival rate of this cutting method is as high as over ninety percent.

2. Softwood cuttings

Softwood cuttings of the dawn redwood are generally carried out in May-June. We can choose semi-lignified softwood shoots as cuttings, preferably about 14-18cm long, keeping 4-5 leaves on the upper part, then insert them 4-6cm into the soil. After inserting, place them in a shady spot to grow. After one week, they can be moved outdoors to grow.

Overview of dawn redwood propagation methods

Dawn redwood seed propagation

After the dawn redwood fruit matures, collect the seeds and dry them in the sun. Once dry, screen out the seeds and store them dry. Sow in March in spring, using drilling or broadcasting in the field. After sowing, the soil covering should not be too thick; just keep the soil moist at all times.

Dawn redwood cutting propagation

Either hardwood cuttings or softwood cuttings can be used.

Dawn redwood hardwood cuttings

In January, cut vigorous growing branches from a 2-3 year old mother tree as mother cuttings, generally about 15cm. Carry out the cuttings in early March, inserting the branches into sandy soil to achieve the effect of heat preservation, moisture retention and frost prevention. Soaking them in a rooting powder solution for 1 day before cutting can promote rooting; after cutting, use full-light seedling cultivation, watering, weeding and loosening the soil at the right times.

Dawn redwood softwood cuttings

Dawn redwood softwood cuttings are generally carried out in late May. Choose semi-lignified softwood shoots as cuttings, cut them to about 15cm, keep 4-5 pinnate compound leaves on the upper part, then insert them into the soil. After inserting, pay attention to shading. In summer, you can supplement water by misting. While keeping it moist, also pay attention to ventilation, which can promote the cuttings to take root sooner.

Dawn redwood transplanting

Dawn redwoods can be transplanted from late autumn to early spring. Dawn redwood seedlings should be dug up and planted immediately to avoid excessive water loss. If long-distance transport is needed, then after the plants arrive at their destination, the seedling roots should immediately be soaked in water to replenish moisture. Large seedlings must be transplanted with a soil ball. After applying sufficient base fertilizer, fill in fine soil and press it firm. After planting, water thoroughly.

Moderate pruning of the dawn redwood

In order to create a ventilated and light-transmitting growing environment for the plants, moderate pruning should be carried out after the stand is established. The best time to prune is after the dawn redwood sheds its leaves and before the Start of Spring. The pruning intensity is 1/4-1/3 of the total length of the crown.