Far, far easier IMHO is to ground layer. IIRC new wood is best for rooting, Hartmann et al. state direct root in liner pots @ 1k ppm IBA.

Dan

All of my 8" long hardwood cuttings taken in January & inserted into leaf mold sprouted & even bloomed this summer. I was rather surprised because 1 gallon pots of them didn't bloom though a different Escallonia.

Corrine