MTM - Schefflera banyan progression thread.

[Michigan Tree Murderer]

After thinning the top branches on Aug 3rd, I'm getting new growth on branches below. Looking under the canopy I saw a few aerial roots that attempted to grow and dried out. I read that chopping the roots like I did when I repotted it will cause the tree to shoot new aerial roots out. Which would be fine in a tropical environment but not mine.


What I'm guessing is a grasshopper is feeding on some of the leaves, I didn't find one upon inspection.


Also getting good root growth along the soil, and what looks like tree frog poop. Hopefully they ate the grasshopper.

 

[Michigan Tree Murderer]

Prior to starting this banyan project, I purchased a small Schefflera to practice on, the small one is in inorganic bonsai soil, and doesn't grow half as well as this one I have in organic soil. Leaves aren't as green, not much back budding, & the overall health is night & day between the two. Just an oberservartion I'd like to share and remember.


I found some Aphids while trimming it back again today. Growing really great all Summer.


I sprayed the tree to help get rid of the Aphids. I'll keep an eye on it.


I think this weird leaf growth is from being pressed against the porch railing, not a 100% sure.

 

[Michigan Tree Murderer]

Just a trim before it goes inside for the winter. Lot's of new growth, & new branches.





I had some help.

 

[Michigan Tree Murderer]

After the Oct 3rd trim I brought this inside on Oct 16th and put it in the grow tent to grow more areial roots. It only take six weeks or so for the AR to reach the soil. Then it takes around the same amout of time before the AR harden off so I can remove it from the grow tent and let it 'rest'.

Pic of back taken on Nov 16th.



Ten days later. Same side (back for now) different zoom level.


Front from ten days ago


Now.


I'm going for something like this.

or this


Whichever comes first.

 

[Michigan Tree Murderer]

I'm watering too much in a high humidity. Oops. I increased the exhaust fan time, and cut back on watering after seeing this. It's in a "Ooga Booga" grow tent.