Mayhaw Propagation
Growing new mayhaws can be achieved by seed or cuttings.
•Growing New Mayhaws by Seed
Some people have good luck planting mayhaw seeds directly outdoors, but experts provide the following information: Gather mayhaw fruit in fall, when they’re mature but not fully ripe. Soak the mayhaws in warm water for a few days to loosen the pulp, then place the clean seeds in a container filled with damp sand. Store the seeds in the refrigerator for at least 12 weeks, and then plant them outdoors in late winter.
•Mayhaw Reproduction with Softwood Cuttings
Cut a few healthy mayhaw stems when the growth is firm enough to snap when bent. Stems should be 4 to 6 inches long (10-15 cm.). Remove all but the top two leaves. Cut the two remaining leaves in half horizontally. Dip the tips of the stems in rooting hormone, either powder, gel or liquid. Plant the stems in small pots filled with well-drained potting mix or a mixture of half peat and half fine bark. The potting mix should be moistened ahead of time but shouldn’t be dripping wet. Cover the pots with plastic to create a greenhouse-like atmosphere. Place the pots in indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which may scorch the cuttings. Place the pots on a heat mat. Check the cuttings regularly. Water lightly if the potting mix feels dry. Remove the plastic when the cuttings have rooted and are showing new growth. Transplant the cuttings into larger pots in spring. Allow the small mayhaw trees to mature to a healthy size before planting them outdoors.
