AusBonsai

RevoEvoS wrote:Is there a reason with wire over the wood for air layering?

Jason wrote:

RevoEvoS wrote:Is there a reason with wire over the wood for air layering?

In reference to what mate? Do you mean the twist ties that are in the last two pictures?

Ryceman3 wrote:Hi Revo,
I have closely followed the technique that was suggested by RayM, which involved putting a wire just above the top cut as illustrated. I know he has done extensive research & countless layers so I trust this, my understanding is it helps in the development of roots in a more timely manner and also results in a more even spread of roots around the circumference of the cut... Better nebari!!?! The thickness of the wire is important as is positioning it as closely to the top of the cut as possible.
Like I have said, this is my first layer, so maybe somebody with more experience/knowledge can either correct or second what I have said.
Hope that helps

The wire is not there to prevent the layer healing itself. The layer is prevented from healing by two things. The distance the top and bottom cuts are apart and the removal of all the cambium.
So, what does the wire do
First, the wire is not necessary on all species of trees. This idea came about when trying to find a way to deal with trees that tend to callus rather than develop roots. Have a look at the photo below. If you have a close look at where the red arrows are indicating, you will see the beginning of callusing but roots have also developed.
You will notice that the callus has hit the wire and not folded down. In conjunction with this I believe the callus is irritated by the wire helping it to shoot roots.

CoGRedeMptioN wrote:Looking very promising Ryce!


Cheers
Elmar

Rory wrote:Yep. Beautiful Mel this one. Good luck with it. Watching with interest too.

Ray M wrote:Hi Ryceman3,
Great to see some activity going on with the roots mate. You need to see quite a lot more roots before removing the layers. You mentioned leaving them till Spring. I would agree with you 100%, it is a game of patience.

Regards Ray

Thanks for the encouragement guys, I'm feeling like there is something happening now and that's exciting... But I'll definitely be hanging on until I see more development before they come off.

Should I expect root development to continue at a good rate over the winter period or will it slow down until weather warms up a little do you think? Growth will certainly slow over winter. With our Australian native they can have several growing spurts in one year, so just keep your eye on them and see how they go. I have no idea, hoping you can fill me in.

Cheers!