Baeckea air layer

melbrackstone · Post by **melbrackstone** » July 19th, 2016, 3:59 pm

I'm sure this was called a Baeckea something or other when I planted it 30 years ago, and now it's being used as a stock tree for me to take some air layers from. What I'm wondering though, does anyone think I'd have a hope of air layering the large trunk?

It's around 70mm across the narrow side and around 90mm on the wider side.

All the white roots are from the cruxifix orchid that's growing up the trunk...

IMG_5963.JPG

IMG_5961.JPG

Ray M · Post by **Ray M** » July 19th, 2016, 5:05 pm

Hi melbrackstone,

melbrackstone wrote:I'm sure this was called a Baeckea something or other when I planted it 30 years ago, and now it's being used as a stock tree for me to take some air layers from. What I'm wondering though, does anyone think I'd have a hope of air layering the large trunk?

It's around 70mm across the narrow side and around 90mm on the wider side.

All the white roots are from the cruxifix orchid that's growing up the trunk...

IMG_5963.JPG
IMG_5961.JPG

I think you could have success if you take a lot of care. I'll try and explain what I mean. I have marked on the photo two positions for Air Layering. The Red line should be fairly easy to do. The Yellow line presents a little more of a challenge. You will notice that the trunk at this point is not smooth, there are a number areas where there are deep crevices. When cutting the ringbark you will need to make sure that you get down to the hard wood. If there are areas in the crevices that still have Cambium the layer may heal itself. I hope this all makes sense. If I was attempting this I would leave it until the weather warms up some.

IMG_5961-2.JPG

Regards Ray

melbrackstone · Post by **melbrackstone** » July 19th, 2016, 5:09 pm

Thanks Ray, I've managed a couple on the limbs that don't have all the ropy veins. My concern is exactly as you mentioned...will I be able to get deep enough, and am I being too greedy hoping for such a thick air layer!

Appreciate your reply, ta!

Ray M · Post by **Ray M** » July 19th, 2016, 5:25 pm

melbrackstone wrote:Thanks Ray, I've managed a couple on the limbs that don't have all the ropy veins. My concern is exactly as you mentioned...will I be able to get deep enough, and am I being too greedy hoping for such a thick air layer!

Appreciate your reply, ta!

Hi melbrackstone,
I believe it is quite possible to get all the Cambium removed. It will take some work but just be diligent and patient to make sure you get into each crevice. Are you being greedy?? This is one of the joys in Bonsai, being willing to experiment and have a go. Even if the layer failed there is still the original trunk and roots left that I'm sure will bud back. The photo shows good back budding.

IMG_5961-3.JPG

Regards Ray

Watto · Post by **Watto** » July 19th, 2016, 5:36 pm

I don't have any advice but I just hope you are successful. That trunk would make a very evocative bonsai.

melbrackstone · Post by **melbrackstone** » July 19th, 2016, 6:33 pm

Agree Watto!! I've been eyeing it off for months!!!

zimzallabim · Post by **zimzallabim** » January 14th, 2017, 6:04 pm

Update?

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melbrackstone · Post by **melbrackstone** » January 14th, 2017, 6:25 pm

I've decided to take some smaller air layers off it first. At the moment, I have two successful ones in pots, and two still on the tree.

Still thinking about whether I have the guts to try the trunk...but thanks for asking!

AusBonsai

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