DIY Network

Air Layering From "Ask DIY" episode ADI-608

Q: I've read about a technique to propagate plants that are difficult to root. Can you walk me through the process?

A: (Horticulturist Jessie Mack Burns) That's a great question -- and I'm going to walk you through it step-by-step. For my demonstration, I'm using a rubber plant that has lost some leaves. With this technique, air layering, I can either stimulate new growth, or start a whole new plant -- and it works well for plants with woody stems.

advertisement

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Materials:

Small kitchen knife
Toothpick or small sliver of wood
Root hormone powder and small brush
Sphagnum or sheet moss
Water
String
Clear plastic wrap
Electrical tape

1. Carefully cut the stem (figure A) using an upward slice about 1-1/2"-2" from the top of the stem (or wherever you'd like your new growth to start). Don't cut all the way through the stem -- only about halfway through.

2. Insert a toothpick or sliver of wood into the cut area.

3. Use a small brush to apply a bit of powdered root hormone (figure B to encourage growth of new roots.

4. Soak some sphagnum or sheet moss. Wring it out, then tie a clump around the stem.

5. Cut a piece of clear plastic wrap and wrap around the moss (figure C). Seal ends tightly with electrical tape at the top and bottom of the wrapped moss.

6. Within 5-7 days, you should start to see new root growth. To transplant the new plant, simply cut just below the wrapped area and transplant the entire thing to a new pot. Don't remove the moss wrap.

7. Wait until the plant develops even more new roots, then remove the wrap.

More Viewer Questions. . .

Q: Can you provide steps to safely bathe an African violet to remove aphids?

A: Gently spritz your plant down and wipe the leaves. You can also invert the plant into a pitcher of water and gently rotate it. Just be sure to wipe the excess water off to prevent rot.

Q: I want to plant bulbs in a pot outside. Do I follow the same rules as if I were planting them in the ground?

A: Yes. You just want to make sure that you are using a large enough container so that the bulbs aren't crowded or rubbing together.

Q: How do you winterize a sprinkler system? I'm not sure how to drain it.

A: You'll need to have it blown out. You can do this yourself or have a professional do it, if you don't know how. Keep in mind, however, that if you use too much pressure, you can damage the system.

RESOURCES :
Successful Houseplants: Advice on Choosing, Displaying and Caring ...
Model: 0754808327
Author: Andrew Clinch

How Not to Kill Your Houseplants: The Foolproof Guide to Lush, Healthy Plants
Model: 0595192769
Author: Anne Pregosin

Secrets of Plant Propagation: Starting Your Own ...
Model: 0882663704
Author: Lewis Hill

Making More Plants: The Science, Art, and Joy of Propagation
Model: 051770787X
Author: Ken Druse

American Horticultural Society Plant Propagation
Model: 0789441160
Author: AHS