One of my Adriatic cuttings died, and the other was not looking happy. I removed all the leaves, recut it about 1/2 inch (it's plenty long enough to recut again) and tried the baggy method. I did not wrap the entire cutting in paper towels; left the top and a bit of the bottom out. I open the bag and let it air out, then blow it up every day. It's been about 2 weeks now, and while I have not seen anything resembling roots, the top is starting to put out leaves.

Should I remove the leaves as they grow in, or leave them? Should I take it out and try sticking it again, maybe deeper this time? If so, should I recut it and use rooting hormone?

TIA

Amie

Bumping this to try to get an answer. Thanks!

Hi Amie, The more you play with or move the cuttings around the less likely they will survive. Growing leaves has nothing to do with roots. You need both in order to succeed. I usually stick my cuttings in potting soil in a self irrigating pot from Walmart, add water from below and leave them alone. Not all cuttings make it, but after trying different ways, I believe that I have a high rate of success using this method.
You could initially cover with a clear plastic top if you wish to simulate a green house environment. The key to success is the right amount of moisture and light.

Here's an example where I put three cuttings in one pot, left them alone for a few months. They all made it.
Some varieties need over 90 days in order to take off.