Air layering is a method of propagating new plants from existing ones by encouraging a branch or stem to produce roots while still attached to the parent plant. This way, you can create a clone of the original plant without having to cut it off or disturb its roots. Air layering is especially useful for plants that are difficult to root from cuttings or lack low-growing shoots for conventional layering, such as magnolia, hazel, cotinus and flowering cornus.
In this article, I will show you how to do air layering in 10 easy steps. You will need some basic tools and materials. Here is a list of required tools and materials:
- Air Layer Kit
- Alcohol Wipes or Soap/Water ($5)
- Grafting Knife ($16)
- Pruning Shears or Pruning Saw ($13)
- Standard Plastic Water Bottle
- Duct tape or Electrical Tape ($13)
- Substrate of Choice (Coconut Husk, Peat
- Moss, Perlite, Soil) (Free/$15)
- Cut Resistant Gloves ($10) Optional
Step 1: Choose a healthy branch or stem that is about one year old and has several leaves. Avoid branches that are too thin or too thick. The ideal diameter is about half an inch.
Step 2: Make a slanted cut about one-third of the way through the branch or stem, about one foot away from the tip. The cut should be about two inches long.
Step 3: Insert a toothpick into the cut to keep it open and prevent it from healing.
Step 4: Apply some rooting hormone (if using) to the exposed cambium layer (the green tissue under the bark).
Step 5: Wrap some moist sphagnum moss around the cut area, forming a ball of about four inches in diameter. The moss should be damp but not dripping wet.
Step 6: Cover the moss ball with some plastic wrap and secure it with some twine or tape at both ends. Make sure there are no gaps or holes in the plastic wrap.
Step 7: Label the branch or stem with the date and name of the plant.
Step 8: Wait for roots to form inside the moss ball. This may take several weeks or months depending on the plant species and growing conditions.
Step 9: Check periodically for signs of rooting by gently squeezing the moss ball. If you feel resistance, it means roots have developed.
Step 10: When roots have filled up most of the moss ball, you can separate your new plant from its parent by cutting below the plastic wrap. Remove any excess moss and plant your new plant in a pot with fresh potting soil. Water well and place it in a bright location but out of direct sunlight until it establishes itself.
Congratulations! You have successfully propagated a new plant by air layering! Enjoy your new addition to your garden!
Conclusion
Air layering is a simple and effective technique for propagating plants. By following these 10 easy steps, you can create new plants that are identical to the parent plant. It is important to choose a healthy stem, apply rooting hormone, and keep the moss ball moist and protected from light. With a little patience and practice, you can become an expert in air layering and enjoy the benefits of a thriving garden or farm.