Cuttings

• Grafting and budding are the most common ways to propagate new fruit trees, according to the University of California Master Gardener Program. However, cuttings are a viable alternative. When to take the cutting depends on the type of fruit tree. Take softwood cuttings from the tree's new growth in late spring or early summer, semi-softwood cuttings from mature growth in early autumn and hardwood cuttings from dormant growth. Take cuttings from the end of a limb, just below a stem node.
  
  

Rooting

• Cuttings cannot be planted directly in the ground and expected to thrive. They have to be nurtured in the proper environment. Dust the cut end of the limb with rooting hormone powder to improve its chances of survival. Plant it in a medium-size pot, in potting soil mixed with compost and nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Water it regularly so the soil stays moist, but not completely soaked. The cutting will slowly develop roots, and after a year of growth should be ready for transplanting outdoors.
  
  

Transplanting

• Choose an area to transplant the cutting that is free from heavy vegetation so the sapling has room to grow without root strangulation. Dig a hole half again as large as the tree's root system. Transplant the tree carefully. Make sure not to bunch up or damage the roots. Fertilize monthly for the first year, maintain a moist soil around the tree and keep away animals that can damage the tree before it is healthy enough to survive on its own.
  
  

Fruit

• It will take a few years for the new tree to bear fruit, depending on the type of tree. Trees grown from a cutting will commonly bear fruit similar in taste and color to its mother tree. The first year's harvest will not be strong, and most of the fruit will be small and inedible. It takes time for fruit trees to become productive, so patience and care are key to successful propagation.