air layering Ficus carica

[Pierre]

Hi,

I have been growing a Fig Tree (grafted) in a big pot for the last 5 years, and it looks like a good bonsai material to me (1 meter at the moment, trunk diameter at base 5cm). I was thinking of air layering it. Would early spring be the best time? Or is it achievable now?
Thanks in advance, Pierre

Fig Tree 03.2014.jpg

[shibui]

These guys have pretty big leaves. I think there are better species for bonsai but if you have to try then go ahead.
These are deciduous (at least down here. Do they loose their leaves in Brissy?) so spring/ summer would be the best time to layer but I would expect success at any time of year, just might take a bit longer in the cooler months.

[Boics]

They do have extraordinarily large leaves but based on some of the carica Bonsai examples I have seen online I've got a couple going myself.
They do reduce leaf size very well with some technique and believe it or not can even achieve some semi credible mame and shohin sized trees.

Have a Google image search you'd be amazed.

Re. Layering my understanding is that growth and leaves are what is required so summer / spring would be optimal.

[Pierre]

These guys have pretty big leaves. I think there are better species for bonsai but if you have to try then go ahead.
These are deciduous (at least down here. Do they loose their leaves in Brissy?) so spring/ summer would be the best time to layer but I would expect success at any time of year, just might take a bit longer in the cooler months.

Thanks for your reply. Yes they are deciduous here in Brissie too. I will wait for mid spring next year then, it seems like a better and more reasonable time for the tree. Once again thank you. I had a look at your very inspiring website and catalog....Will definitely get in touch in the near future...
Pierre