If my airlayer is pushing growth, is this a sign of developing roots?

[BenHolland2991]

Hi all,

I air layered a small chunky berberis branch to become a future mame tree approximately 6/7 weeks ago. In the past week the air later has been pushing new growth with some new whips as long as 7/8cm.

Is this a sign of success/ root development?

Thanks

 

[Adamski77]

I think it might be also sign of not enough separation on the branch from the tree... so cambium still connected there and tree managed to find the way to feed the branch...

 

[sorce]

The old roots still feed the top in this system, so growth only indicates you haven't cut too far, but doesn't eliminate the possibility of a cut too shallow, which may lead to that bridge.

Welcome to Crazy!

Berberberrrrgrrrrgrrrgrrr....

Sick a Dem pokers, though the pokey stalks certainly keep squirrels from digging up seeds!

Sorce

 

[Cajunrider]

Hi all,

I air layered a small chunky berberis branch to become a future mame tree approximately 6/7 weeks ago. In the past week the air later has been pushing new growth with some new whips as long as 7/8cm.

Is this a sign of success/ root development?

Thanks

Not necessarily. I usually take the abundance of new shoots forming below the air-layer as a sign that I have successfully separate the cambium and the tree is responding. As far as roots forming on the layer, I just take a peek after every few weeks.

 

[Shibui]

Same Gently unwrap part way and move the moss aside to check for roots. Just be aware that new roots are extremely brittle so take extra care.
If in doubt leave it another few weeks for more roots.

 

[BenHolland2991]

Not necessarily. I usually take the abundance of new shoots forming below the air-layer as a sign that I have successfully separate the cambium and the tree is responding. As far as roots forming on the layer, I just take a peek after every few weeks.

Thats an interesting point. There is a few shoots popping below the layer but on the main trunk of the shrub, not directly below the layer which is a short thick side branch.
I will have a cautious look later today to check if anything is happening. Ill try to get a few pictures up also.

Cheers

 

[Pitoon]

Remember the branch you are air layering is still connected to the donor plant, it will continue to grow. The best way to know when to separate the air layer is to check the available roots. There should be enough roots to support the section to be air layered off.