The layer was started in the spring. Nonetheless, this one did not have as many roots as some of the other maples that I layered this year. When I separated it, there was additional foliage, which all turned brown pretty quickly. I figured it was dead. Then, it put out this new growth. It’s still not out of the woods yet, but it’s holding on for now, which is more than I had anticipated considering. Only time will tell.
Yes... the only advice I have for you is to provide a ton of protection this winter. I haven't tried overwintering a weak JM indoors - similar to a tropical - so I'm not sure if that would help things in this case. Many deciduous can skip a single winter without undue stress... but not sure about JM.
I guess I could give it a short winter by leaving it out for now so it has a dormancy period, but then bring it indoors before the harshest part of winter.
I’ve got 2 spots where my trees go for winter: one along the north side of the garage and another on the northwest corner of the house where the back porch offers some protection. All my trees are already on the ground in those areas. I pack the trees in as close to each other as possible. I’ll mulch them in soon. I’m not especially worried about the layer. I think it will be ok.
