Air Layering Techniques

There are a number of plants, both trees and shrubs that resist the normal cutting method when it comes to reproduction of the offshoot. Gardening involves a consistent and dedicated approach towards identifying methods for maintenance of the foliage. There are special gardening techniques adopted in the case of plants that resist traditional methods of reproduction. Some plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, and magnolias are better grown by the air layering method. There is no basic difference between the air layering and ordinary layering method.

The only difference is that instead of the shoot being rooted in the soil, it continues to thrive on the mother plant, in its normal position. In this gardening technique, an area on the mother plant is identified and enclosed in moist, sphagnum moss. This is used to hold the shoot in place. A polythene sleeve ensures that the shoot is held firmly. The best time of the year to take on the task is May or early June.

This gardening technique or method involves making an incision on the mother plant. The incision needs to be kept open with a small piece of wood or any other organic material. The purpose is to ensure space and stability for the new plant to thrive. The section should then be dusted with some hormone rooting powder specially prepared for air layering.

There are a number of exclusive retail outlets that market the powder and even offer instructions on the quantity to be used. The cut is filled with the moist, sphagnum moss and covered with a polythene sleeve. You have to ensure that the incision is filled well and sealed to retain moisture. In a matter of days, you will notice white roots emerging through the moss. That is your sapling! It is at this stage that the layer should be severed away from the base and potted. Thereafter, the sapling needs to be watered well. In order to maintain a stable and secure environment for the sapling, you could ideally adopt a polythene tent to retain moisture. Once the plant grows sturdier, it can be placed among the other plants in the indoor or outdoor garden.