Root Grafting a Chinese Corky Bark Elm

[Chris H]

I have a Corky bark Ive played with for a few years but all the roots are messy and on only one side. I cant tip the tree forward to reveal new roots as it already leans too far forward I cant layer as it will make the trunk too short.

A few years ago I took two root cuttings to use as root grafts on the back. Both root cuttings make great little minis.
I really need four or five grafts as the whole back of the tree has absolutely no nebari.

Has anyone performed grafts for new nebari on a corky bark?

Have I missed a post somewhere?

All advice welcome.

[shibui]

I haven't tried grafting roots on elms. I think the thick bark could cause difficulties but it should still be possible if you want to try.
As an alternative, you could try cutting a strip of bark from the side you need roots, at the right height (sort of like a partial air layer). Paint the cut with rooting compound and cover the cut area with mix or better still sphagnum moss and cover that with potting mix. I have used this technique successfully with tridents and a few other species. The 'toothpick' method is a variation of this and would probably be effective too.

[Chris H]

Great idea.
A partial layer.
I'll give that a go.
They tend to bud before anything else so I'm thinking I better get on with it in the next four weeks.