when to ground layer?

scribewicz

I have a nice sized trunk trident maple (3 to 4 inch diameter) that has, well, unsightly and lop-sided roots.

I wish to "ground layer" it - that is cause the tree to make new surface roots and eventually elimate the existing roots. I've done a "search" here on the forum and there is good info, but nobody mentions when this is best done on a deciduous tree.

I have done several successful air layers of branches on both japanse and trident maples - I'll wait until the new leaves harden off before I attempt and my success rate has been 100% - so I feel I have a good grip on the how just not the when.

My question is thus - do I wait until the same time to ground layer or can I perform my ring barking etc. in the early spring just as the tree is breaking dormancy, such as when I repot?

Thanks in advance, Steve

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peace, Steve

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rockm

You're making this too hard, looking for set deadlines when you can perform this task.

Two things that have to be happening are the tree has to be actively growing and there has to be time enough for the roots to lignify (hardening off is preparation for winter). Both occur in Spring and early summer--a ground layer is just an air layer closer to the ground...