LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- Many of you may be trying to enjoy the holidays just a little bit longer! If you have your Christmas tree up still, our Lifestyle Expert Chris Olsen has the perfect idea with "Propagation Made Easy".
Step One: Propagation is so easy. Take cuttings of your tree or shrub in the dormant season. Cut a 6 to 8 inch-long section of the stem, preferably from the previous season's growth. Make sure to cup the top of the section at an angle just above a single bud or pair of buds. The bottom of the cutting should be a straight cut just below a single bud or pair of buds.
Step Two: Dip the base of each cutting into a rooting-hormone powder, which can be found at most garden centers.
Step Three: Make a special potting mixture to root your cuttings. The mixture needs to be four parts compost or good potting soil (peat-free), to one part perlite. Mix together the ingredients evenly.
Step Four: Fill Container with mixture, and plant each cutting. Remember to make the hole in the soil with a pencil and then place each cutting into each hole. This will prevent the rooting-hormone powder from rubbing off. Water well, let drain, and place in a protect place indoors with plenty of indirect light. A window sill works great.
Second Segment: "Recycle Your Christmas Tree"
Go ahead and place your cut Christmas tree outdoors either in it's stand or in a pot full of sand and rock. Then re-decorate the tree with lots of bird treats such as orange halves, pine cones covered in peanut butter and bird seed, or even small bird feeders. The tree adds for protection and a great food source for so many birds.
You can also cut up your Christmas tree and lay the branches over your roses, tender perennials, or any plant to help protect and insulate against a harsh winter. I find that these branches also help provide protection and shelter for critters.