re-potted Larix.jpg
Today on 5th April, the needles are well out and I will attempt an air layer to shorten the trunk using the wire loop constriction method rather than ringing the bark in the usual fashion. The plastic pot was split down one side and a hole cut in the bottom to go around the trunk. This is to create a support for a second pot which will hold the layer.
Larix needled and propped.jpg
A double loop of wire is tightened onto the trunk at the point where I wish roots to form. Meanwhile some Sphagnum moss is soaked in water to which I added a couple of drops of 'Superthrive'. I use aluminium wire because I have discovered that copper has a slight inhibiting factor on root growth. I noticed this after using copper to anchor mesh over the drainage holes in pots.
Larix constricted.jpg
A light brushing of Clonex root hormone is applied to the wired area. A second split pot is placed right way up on top of the first and the soaked Sphagnum packed into it to slightly above the wire loops. The coarse mesh is placed over this to discourage birds from picking the Sphagnum out.
Larix layer meshed.jpg
Now it goes back outside to grow those new roots. I used the wire instead of the usual ring barking method because it causes the base of the trunk to swell and the root flair is usually better. Okay, it will take longer but I am quite prepared to leave the layer on over next winter if necessary. The open pot will be watered along with everything else because it is not watertight like a plastic wrapped layer and will dry out normally.
Larix ready for outside.jpg