If you want to learn how to root a tree branch without cutting it, you’ve come to the right place! Mayhaps you have a rapidly growing indoor plant or a leggy tree that needs thicker branches. Either way, this method attach new growth. As St. Augustine’s tree pruning experts, our team at Affordable Tree & Landscape developed a brief guide to assist you.
What Does Air Layering Mean?
Air layering is one of the best and most accessible ways to root tree branches. You grow a tree branch completely from scratch! Start air layering at the beginning of growing season for results by season’s end.
Don’t attempt air layering during the dormant season. Dormant trees focus their growth efforts on the root system rather than branches, trunks, or other barky parts. Air layering during the dormant season can stunt growth and make a mother plant more susceptible to disease.
How to Root a Tree Branch Without Cutting
Air layering seems complex at first. But it simply requires some extra care and attention to detail. Follow the steps below to facilitate successful root growth from your chosen branch.
#1 Preparation
The first part of learning how to root a tree branch without cutting involves thorough preparation! Research the types of trees that respond well to air layering. Tree varieties like rubber trees, ornamental figs, umbrella trees, and fruit trees are examples of trees that respond to air layering.
Next, choose the correct tools for the job. You will need:
- Sharp, sanitized knife
- Sealed plastic bag
- Plastic wrap
- Sphagnum moss
- Rooting hormone (powder or liquid)
- Cotton swabs
- Electrical tape
#2 Branch Selection
Find yourself a nice thin branch no thicker than a pencil’s width. Does the branch have leaf or leaf node a foot from the tip? If so, you’re ready to go! Use your sanitized knife to make an incision around the branch’s circumference near the node.
Then, make a second incision about an inch below the first incision. Neither incision should cut into the wood beneath the bark. Peel the thin layer of bark away from the incision areas.
#3 Administer Rooting Hormone
Next, use your rooting hormone product on the peeled area of exposed internal tree flesh. Dip the cotton swab into the product and apply it to the raw wood.
#4 Cover the Branch
After applying rooting product, wrap the exposed wood with the moss. Use a tight layer of plastic wrap to keep the moss in place. Finally, cover the packaged area with the plastic bag. Keep the protected area moist and out of direct sunlight.
#5 Maintenance
Inspect your branch weekly to add proper moisture and check for roots. You’ll see satisfactory results at the end of growing season. You can either remove the propagated branch to create a new tree or leave it for a fuller plant.
Get Reputable Tree Assistance from Affordable Tree & Landscape
With Affordable Tree & Landscape, you can learn more than how to root a tree branch without cutting it. You can also discover proper tree pruning techniques and numerous landscaping services. Call us at (904) 687-9856.
Leave A Comment