What kinds of woody plants will root as leafless stakes?
Some other examples are Bosqueia angolensis, Ceiba pentandra, Debregeasia salicifolia, Ochroma lagopus, Pterocarpus indicus and species of Dracaena, Erythrina, Ficus, Vernonia and bamboos; agricultural crops such as cassava (manioc) and sugar-cane, and several ornamental and hedging shrubs. Gmelina arborea has been rooted as leafless cuttings, by using the shoots removed from ‘stumped’ planting stock, without their leaves. Does it matter when I take leafless cuttings? • Adequate soil moisture: if possible plant in the first half of the rainy season, or in a place that can easily be kept watered. • Inactive buds: the cuttings should preferably not have actively flushing buds, as it is better for new shoot growth to follow rooting. Lengths of older wood are often used, rather than the softest, green shoots. (Note: leafless cuttings of a few species can require cool storage, to make them ready to root well). • Leaves: shoots that have already lost their leaves naturally are often best; if
