What's the best way to prune so the cuttings can be rooted?

I have many plants that I'd like to cut back for easier storage this winter. I realize this is not the best time to prune but poor planning on my part and growth spurts on some plants have made this an option I'm willing to pursue. Any advice on how to maximize the chances of getting these cuttings to root? Size of cutting (length/girth), all wood or both green and wood? If I send these out, what's the best way to package them so they stay as fresh as possible? Even though I don't see obvious signs should I spray the plant for pests/disease before taking any cuttings? Any takers?

thanks,
d

Hi Dee, the following is some information from someone who has been doing Hibiscus for 20 years. He also sends & receives cuttings from around the world. I don't think it is necessary to wax the ends if they are not traveling long distances. With it taking them 4-6 weeks to arrive.
" Most of the people who mail me wood do it this way. They cut the stem as close to the size of a pencil as possible. About 6 inches long, with several nodes on it. (There is a node where each leaf grows.) Then remove all of the leaves, carefully, so as to not strip the wood from the side of the cuttings. Cutting the leaves off is best. seal both ends of it in wax. (Not too hot, or it will damage the wood.) Then, put in in a plastic bag and mail in a padded envelope. If it is going to be a long time, a damp paper towel can be wrapped around them. If it is too damp, the wood will rot. When you graft, use pieces of wood that are about 4-6 inches long, with at least 3 nodes on each piece. If the wood is to be rooted, a couple of leaves should be left on the top of each piece. When you re-cut the wood before rooting, it should be cut at an angle through an eye. (Node)."
I got some lovely Angel Trumpet cuttings from a very nice lady Mon. She removed all the leaves & wet a paper towel with H202 & wrapped the bottoms of the"sticks" & fastened them in plastic tied with a twisty tie. Proud to say they are looking really good & most have nubbies & some even tiny leaves. And, I got them 5 days ago!!! Already putting some in potting mix & the others will be ready within days. I definitely would leave a few leaves on the tops. Just because I'd be liable to plant the wrong end! :-)
Judy

Don't know if its clear or not but he had told me they used the woody part to make cuttings, not the green stems. Therefore they are mailing "wood" to each other. I'm sure
still in the learning mode but I would do it the way he suggested except I would not use wax for short trips. Bet Jon, Patrick & Robert could add a lot to this discussion with all their wonderful collections & experience. And, if you are cutting & rooting "wood" give Wilfred's faze of the moon a trial & see what you think. I'm even trying the faze with Oleanders & from what I've read they are not easy to root. Did some the week before the faze & some on the faze. Will let y'all know how it goes.

Judy

Thanks Judy! Anyone want wood if I have extra? I don't know yet for which plants but if you don't care and you want to try some send me a dmail.

d

Wish I could add some information, but I'm naive when it comes to rooting cuttings. I've only grafted cuttings to date.

Like Toucan Tango for ME Jon???

LOL. I'm hoping my Toucan Tango graft will take. Its been about 3 weeks and nothing yet. They seem to take a good 5-6 weeks.