A few days ago we were talking about layering technique, a method of plant multiplication widely used throughout the world.
As we have mentioned, there are many types of layering, being the simple layering and the multiple layering two of the simplest options. But there are more types of layering so today we will delve into the air layering, a variant of this technique that is chosen at the time of multiply trees.
What is it?
Although air layering is frequent in the case of trees, it is also common to use it for multiply shrubs, vines, and some indoor plants, as is the case with the azalea or the camel.
The technique varies with respect to that of the simple layer because stimulates the birth of roots from a branch that remains in the air hanging. If the simple layering occurs at ground level, in this case the layering is aerial precisely because the process takes place without the need to tie the branch to the ground or to a support. The area is usually covered with plastic or plastic tape for best results.
The best time to air layer is spring for outdoor trees and shrubs, while indoor plants can be layered year-round. To learn more about other types of layering, we suggest you consult our guide.
How it is performed?
The first thing to do is select a branch and make a ring of bark, always about 30 cm from the tip. Then, apply rooting hormone powder. Finally, take a piece of clear plastic and cover the branch. Then, hold it on one side to form a cone, which is then filled with peat moss.
Then a little water is added to moisten the peat and the area is covered with newspaper, uncovering every two weeks. When the roots surround the plastic on the inside, it is the right time to cut the new branch, always with a clean cut below the roots.
If you are looking for more information about trees and their care, this article may be useful to you.
Also, if you want to learn about other breeding techniques, you can visit our article on Philodendron propagation, which also offers interesting methods.
Air layering is a useful technique that is not only limited to trees, but can also be applied to plants such as nerium oleander that require specific care.
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