Air Layering indoors in Winter?

JustinD

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If a tree is actively growing, is there any harm to starting an air-layer in the winter to get a jump on next season? I have a very large ficus benjamina and an old chinese elm that would benefit. Willing to try the benjamina as an experiment but would rather not jeopardize the elm. Both are inside and actively growing new shoots.
 

Paradox

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If a tree is actively growing, is there any harm to starting an air-layer in the winter to get a jump on next season? I have a very large ficus benjamina and an old chinese elm that would benefit. Willing to try the benjamina as an experiment but would rather not jeopardize the elm. Both are inside and actively growing new shoots.

Late spring/early summer would be the best time because growth inside during the winter usually isnt as strong and vigorous as during the summer.
 
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cbroad

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tree is actively growing
I would say if it's in active growth go ahead, but it still might be slower than if it could be in full sun.

Is it in a sunny window or is it under some good lights pumping out growth?
 
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cbroad

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Also, benjaminas can be finicky, especially indoors, so if it isn't under some good lights, I would wait for better conditions outdoors come spring or closer to summer.
 

JustinD

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Late spring/early summer would be the best time because growth inside during the winter usually isnt as strong and vigorous as during the summer
Late spring/early summer would be the best time because growth inside during the winter usually isnt as strong and vigorous as during the summer.
Sound advice thank you, I will likely wait
 

JustinD

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Also, benjaminas can be finicky, especially indoors, so if it isn't under some good lights, I would wait for better conditions outdoors come spring or closer to summer.
Oddly enough it’s in the middle of my living room, halfway between pretty large south/north windows, and seems to love it. I repotted it approx 2 months ago and it’s coming back strong. No lights either. Might try a smaller branch for fun and start the big guy when it’s outside. Thanks for the help!
 

sorce

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Airlayer a tiny bit this winter and see what happens!

Sorce
 

leatherback

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If I look at the amount of roots my benjamina pumps out in winter I would not be surprised at good reasults layering now. But, conventional wisdom would argue to wait for the tree to move back into the yard.
 
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