When to air layer my plum?

Larry

I have a large mature plum in the garden,domestic variety,and I would like to air layer a branch for Bonsai. Should I begin in early spring,just as the buds are breaking or after flowering? Or should I select a non flowering branch? I prune it every year after the fruit is harvested so there should plenty of non flowering branches.

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grampz

Mr. Larry,

I don't like 'generalizations', but for the majority of deciduous trees the best time to start an air layer is just after the new leaves of spring harden off...Then don't prune above the layer area until after separation...

Regards
Behr

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CScott

Larry;

When you air-layer pick a branch that has interesting movement. For a plum use a branch that flowers. Layer when the first flush of growth has stopped, when the leaves are full sized. The ones I have layered formed roots very quickly. I use half sphagnam moss, half hydrated water crystals for my medium so it doesn't have to be watered constantly, and wrap the ball with clear plastic. Those plastic tie downs that self lock are great for tying in the ends of the plastic.

You asked about my flowering plum bonsai. It is not a purple leave plum but a wild California native that grows as an understory tree along river banks.

Carmen

Larry

thanks guys. now if i air layer a flowering branch as you suggest that means i'll be using one with flower buds on,i take it this is not a problem?

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CScott

By the time you air layer the flowers will be long gone. If there are any fruits that have formed on the branch you are layering remove them. The fruit draws energy that you want to focus on creating roots. If it is a dense, leafy tree you may want to mark the spot to be air layered. With all the leaves out you may not be able to find the branch if it is up in the canopy.

Carmen

Graydon

Brilliant! What a great idea. I have had a container of those on the shelf for a few years and was just wondering if I could use them for such a thing. Thanks for the idea!

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Larry

so I don't air layer until the flowers have finished which is like late april/may. I thought it was best to do it as soon as the leaf buds open!

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