AusBonsai

Its interesting to me as to why a layer fails, even when everything is done right. This year I did 12 layers according to RayM's technique and 5 failed. All except 1 are Maples. Last year I did layers in the usual manner, and they all grew roots.
One tree for instance (Acer palmatum katsura) I had success with last year, failed this year. I did the layer 8 inches lower and on the same branch as i did it last year. Like I said I even used a better technique this year round.
It makes me think that Mother nature controls more than what we are aware of. Last year we had a overflow of cicadas in summer. This year almost nothing. This year we had record high temps and less rain. Could all this be related to how a tree produces a air layer......?

There are a few facts left out -
Did you do it at the same time as last year?
Did you maintain the moisture the same as last year?

Having said that, I'd say the temps wouldn't help you when they stress out the parent tree!


Cheers
EZ
Via Tapatalk

You are not alone here my friend. I have had failed layers also, and have followed RayM's method. I even bought his air layer book. I put my failed layers down to excessive moisture...

Yes everything was done exactly the same as last year. The only difference is the technique which is better...I had some in plastic that I had a dowel pin in to check the moisture, and others in pots in bonsai soil. I also checked their moisture with a dowel stick. Its really baffling to me.

fredman wrote:Its interesting to me as to why a layer fails, even when everything is done right. This year I did 12 layers according to RayM's technique and 5 failed. All except 1 are Maples. Last year I did layers in the usual manner, and they all grew roots.
One tree for instance (Acer palmatum katsura) I had success with last year, failed this year. I did the layer 8 inches lower and on the same branch as i did it last year. Like I said I even used a better technique this year round.
It makes me think that Mother nature controls more than what we are aware of. Last year we had a overflow of cicadas in summer. This year almost nothing. This year we had record high temps and less rain. Could all this be related to how a tree produces a air layer......?

Hi fredman,
I have just posted concerning layers failing. Wet Layers

Have a look and see if this is what was happening with the layers.

Regards Ray