Air-layer Question (rootstock)

[somegeek]

I have a Japanese maple (red dragon) which has a tall trunk with about one foot of root stock at it's base. I'd like to layer off this extra foot of trunk. My question is, can I layer above the graft or should I layer just below the graft to keep this as rootstock? I thought I recalled reading that Japanese maples could be rooted for bonsai without special rootstock as the trees are taken care of more so than a tree in the ground in the elements.

Appreciate any input.

somegeek

 

[Bonsai Nut]

I am not familiar with your particular Japanese maple. Some varieties can be air-layered and will do fine. I have heard that others will be weak and/or slow growing if you try to air-layer them. I have had such difficulty with Japanese maples in Southern California I am probably not the best source of information.

 

[Stimmie1]

Contact Japanese Mountain Maples, they would know and advise you on your particular species.