Technically they don't need any media to root. It's called propagation but we call it cloning for some reason. Roots have a structural purpose as well as transpiration, meaning it serves to hold the tree up.
They will sprout regardless of media, you only need to hydrate the wound with a rooting hormone and roots will sprout.
I've successfully "cloned" with a 1gal bubbleponic tub, and inserting the cutting through the lid to barely break the water. Once it roots out about 2" I either plant or thread the roots through a net cup for hydro.
So yes, cloning is possible in soil if all the conditions are met.