PDA

View Full Version : Ficus airlayered project BOTTOM

ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:34 PM
The BOTTOM part of a two part project. See another thead for the TOP half.
The more experienced growers have seen it all before but maybe the newer ones may find it of interest.
The ficus philipinensis was too tall so I set about to make two hopefully acceptable trees from an unacceptable one by air-layering.
The roots - very confused. While checking the roots I found a rock under the whole thing. I had forgotten it - It is only visable in a small space at the back. I will worry about that when I come to repot the tree.
I will most pobably remove it as it will be too small in proportion to the tree.
To see the before shot you will have to go to the TOP part of the project. The site will not permit me to post that photo again!
ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:36 PM
The nebari after simplification and balancing.
ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:37 PM
A stip from a plastic barrel serves as a retaining wall. This was filled with a mixture of soilless potting mix and grit. (Unfortunately the only grit available in Barbados is white. - coral limestone.) No rooting compound was used. Ficuses don't seem to need it in their growing season.
ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:39 PM
Both layers in place.
ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:40 PM
After about seven weeks the top and the retaining wall were removed.
New roots had begun emerging from the mix at four weeks.
ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:41 PM
The layer of new potting mix was removed so that the new roots could be properly positioned.
ArtAtkinson
08-21-2003, 01:42 PM
The new roots were recovered. The top cut was sealed with exterior grade carpenter's white glue. I now hope for the best. Where will new branches emerge? If at all.
Wish me good luck.
Art
Jerry Meislik
08-23-2003, 12:28 PM
Art,
Great sequence on airlayering. You need to post the follow up pictures so we can see how you proceed from here.
Jerry Meislik
Whitefish Montana USA
Zone 4-5
http://www.bonsaihunk.8m.com/