AusBonsai

As a lot of you have probably read, I have just put an air-layer on one of my maples. I just need to know if there's any particular care needed for maples because I REALLY don't want this to die!
Thanx
Mason

i just done a trident today mate, i have done it like any normal air layer, just keep checking it to make sure it is all good and moist enough. and look for the roots and when it looks like it will supprt the tree on top you should be good

Easy!

Make sure it does not dry out and keep direct sun and bright light off it Drape a piece of dark plastic or cloth over it.

Wait till you can see roots pushing against the inside and then you will be good to take it off. Will be at least 6- 8 weeks methinks

Got any photos?

Ken

I have made the mistake of leaving the air layer too long, although there were new roots the cambium had healed and the new roots had ceased to function. Since then I follow the basic guideline, layer on Melbourne cup day and Separate on Australia day. Will vary of course but a good one to remember.

thats ean easy way to remeber it mate

Ken, mentioned covering the root-ball...my suggestion would be to use aluminum foil...this what I use. Keeps it dark and the root-ball cool. The only other thing I could suggest is once the roots become visible (assuming your using clear plastic) is to feed it. Use a syringe and inject a small amount of 1/2 strength fert or fish emulsion full strength.

I can't honestly imagine that a layer can be left on too long, although I can see the bark healing over if insufficient has been removed. At least one and a half times the diameter of the member being layered is essential and it must be cut away to the heartwood. Some people remove a ring twice the width of the member.

I layered one about 6 months ago...All that happened was the area callussed up. I just checked it the other day, and it has two baby roots coming out!!! I had just about given up as it had been so long.

So it's worth the wait...

good luck

That is exactly what happened to me, left too long and probably done at the wrong time of year. I would suggest that you make a new layer in the same place but take an extra 1/2cm of bark from the top if possible

thanx guys! Helped a lot!