05-07-2007, 07:11 AM
Hi Carrie,
I'm also learning about air layering ohia right now and I thought I'd share a couple things I found out. First, you should make a small, shallow cut to see if the bark "slips" from the underlying layer. Check this first before you girdle the branch because if the bark doesn't slip off easily the tree may not be in the correct growth phase and your air layers will not root. I think its the kind of thing you need to check for each tree. The best branch length to take is about 3' and be sure the tree is a healthy one with vigorous growth. You need to use rooting hormone in the spagnum moss medium - Dip-n-gro liquid was recommended to me at a dilution rate of 1:5. (It is seriously nasty stuff so wear gloves!) Good luck!
Uluhe Design
Restoration Based Landscape Design for Hawai'i
uluhedesign@yahoo.com
I'm also learning about air layering ohia right now and I thought I'd share a couple things I found out. First, you should make a small, shallow cut to see if the bark "slips" from the underlying layer. Check this first before you girdle the branch because if the bark doesn't slip off easily the tree may not be in the correct growth phase and your air layers will not root. I think its the kind of thing you need to check for each tree. The best branch length to take is about 3' and be sure the tree is a healthy one with vigorous growth. You need to use rooting hormone in the spagnum moss medium - Dip-n-gro liquid was recommended to me at a dilution rate of 1:5. (It is seriously nasty stuff so wear gloves!) Good luck!
Uluhe Design
Restoration Based Landscape Design for Hawai'i
uluhedesign@yahoo.com
Uluhe Design
Native Landscape Design
uluhedesign@yahoo.com
Native Landscape Design
uluhedesign@yahoo.com