Air layering and cutting techniques

[_Rich]

Being relatively new to the hobby and having previously focused primarily on palms - I've recently been inspired by some of the colors coming from crotons / cordylines and the like .

In reviewing the multitude of posts and taking in everyones' outstanding specimens - I consistently see references to propagation techniques including cuttings (self-explanatory) & air layering.

Are there any prior threads out there that detail these techniques? For instance, if one where to take a cutting off of a plumeria....what steps would optimize their chances at getting this cutting to form roots and grow as desired? What is air layering and what steps are involved with getting additional plants from this technique?

Thanks for all the help

Rich

[aussiearoids]

even big branches can be struck with mist and heat

[Gtlevine]

I air layer my trees all the time. Take a box cutter or other sharp knife and cut the cambian layer in a circle around the branch in two spots about two inches apart. You can feel when the knife breaks through this outside skin, so you wont cut too deep. Make another cut between the two circle cuts and peel off the skin all around the branch. Use Hormex #8 rooting hormone powder and dust all around the sticky wound. Take damp sphagnum moss, ring it out so it is now dripping, then place a handfull all around the cut. Wrap moss with cellaphane plastic wrap. Wrap tinfoil over the cellephane and use two twisty ties to tie down the ends to the branch. Thats it, in six weeks you should have the moss layer full of roots and you can cut it free.

[MattyB]

Cool method Gary. I've never tried that cutting before, I just scratched the branch. But I don't do a lot of air layering though I'll have to give that a try.

[Moose]

Being relatively new to the hobby and having previously focused primarily on palms - I've recently been inspired by some of the colors coming from crotons / cordylines and the like .

In reviewing the multitude of posts and taking in everyones' outstanding specimens - I consistently see references to propagation techniques including cuttings (self-explanatory) & air layering.

Are there any prior threads out there that detail these techniques? For instance, if one where to take a cutting off of a plumeria....what steps would optimize their chances at getting this cutting to form roots and grow as desired? What is air layering and what steps are involved with getting additional plants from this technique?

Thanks for all the help

Rich

Rich - there is a croton society forum at Palmpedia. Very helpful people there with any croton question.

Did you know there is a croton named Pride of Winter Haven?

[Wai`anae Steve]

I air layer my trees all the time. Take a box cutter or other sharp knife and cut the cambian layer in a circle around the branch in two spots about two inches apart. You can feel when the knife breaks through this outside skin, so you wont cut too deep. Make another cut between the two circle cuts and peel off the skin all around the branch. Use Hormex #8 rooting hormone powder and dust all around the sticky wound. Take damp sphagnum moss, ring it out so it is now dripping, then place a handfull all around the cut. Wrap moss with cellaphane plastic wrap. Wrap tinfoil over the cellephane and use two twisty ties to tie down the ends to the branch. Thats it, in six weeks you should have the moss layer full of roots and you can cut it free.

I tried it on my Golden Royal Poinciana a few years ago and nuttin' happened. :-(