I have a question about propagation of a cut-leaf beech from our local cemetery. The tree is very old, and it is starting to rot away on one side, about half of the trunk is gone already, while the other half is growing happily on. For sentimental reasons, I would like to preserve that tree by planting a piece of it in my own yard. I am wondering what the best way would be to go about this? Should I attempt to root semi-hardwood cuttings now? Should I wait for late fall and take hardwood cuttings? I also wondered about air-layiering a smaller branch, but that would require the permission of the cemetery authority, which may or may not be given. If it's not given then they may even object to me taking a few small cuttings. What would you do? Any experiences? Ideas? Suggestions?

TIA.

Marc