The Farmville Herald And Farmer Leader

Old Air Layering Method Explained Grows Woody Plants In 5 To 14 Weeks

Home gardeners now have a simple, easy way of reproducing many woody plants- roses, shrubs and trees-within five to 14 weeks.

The method is a modern adaptation of the ancient Chinese art of air layering whereby a ball of wet sphagnum moss is formed around a branch to induce root growth. The moss is held in place by a sheet of transparent film, which helps the moss retain the necessary moisture.

Air layers may be applied any time during the growing season. Best results are obtained in spring and early summer (April to July). In warmer sections of the country air layering can be practiced during most of the year.

Select a healthy branch of plant 3/4 to 1 inch in thickness. Eight to 20 inches from tip of branch remove all twigs and leaves for a distance of 3 to 6 inches. Cut within this space about 1 inch below bud. Make a one-inch slanting cut upward into branch (picture above). Dust incision with Rootone or other rooting hormone. This encourages root formation.

After dusting slip a strand of sphagnum moss into and around incision.

Wrap the film tightly (see above) around the moss ball and make a track fold to hold in place so moss will retain moisture.