Air layering my juniper - no idea what I’m doing

[Stevie_B]

Hmmm. I’m pretty sure I have done something bad.
Basically I tried to air layer some branches off my juniper, all at once. The layered branches are looking pretty crook. Do you think I’ve killed it? Killing junipers is apparently my thing
I am in Brisbane and I layered it about a month ago with spagnum moss and rooting powder.

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[shibui]

Your multiple layers is not the problem. Provided any layer has leaves above it to feed it you can put as many on as there is spaces.
I can't see your technique and only have 'sphagnum moss and rooting powder' as a description of the process.
Cutting too deep can stop sap circulation and kill branches before they root. Too shallow usually just ends up healing so that's probably not an issue here.
Another possibility is just coincidence that something else has happened at the same time rather than the technique being faulty.
At the moment the branches all appear to still be green so it is not yet time to panic unless you can see something that I've missed in the photos so

[Stevie_B]

At the moment the branches all appear to still be green so it is not yet time to panic unless you can see something that I've missed in the photos so

Cool mate, thanks.

Hard to know how much bark etc to remove. I might open one and take a photo of one of the cuts.

The non layered branches are doing what they are supposed to, whilst the others aren't showing any signs of budding etc, which has me a bit worried.

[Promethius]

This is a good overview: https://www.bonsainut.com/threads/the-s ... ing.27034/

In general terms, you need to remove the bark all the way around, including complete removal of the cambium. The hardwood in the centre keeps the distal branch supplied with nutrients, but by interrupting the outer layers will encourage root development.

I have found better success (in my limited trials this year - others are far more knowledgeable) when the cambium is scraped away thoroughly and the moss is moist but not sopping wet.

[Stevie_B]

That’s a great explanation.
I’ll have a closer look.
Thanks