Separating a ground layer

This is a photo series showing the results of a ground layer we did on a crepe myrtle. The myrtle had a major flaw on the back side of the trunk/nebari. The tree was in the pot you see in the first picture. A ring was made in the usual fashion at the level for the new roots. Root hormone. Pack on some sphagnum. Then a fence was built around the tree and that was filled in with soil. We use the same mesh that is used to cover drain holes to build the fences for ground layers. This first picture shows the new roots after the fence has been removed and the soil cleared away.

With the tree removed from the pot, you can clearly see the layer of new roots above the layer of original roots that were contained in the pot.

And here's the tree with the roots pruned, ready for a new pot.

Fusing multiple cuttings for nebari

Over the last several years we have been starting some Trident maple projects by growing multiple cuttings through holes in a tile. Rooted cuttings are inserted from below. The group is planted for vigorous growing. If you try this, be sure there is plenty of soil above the tile for the new roots. This first pictures shows cuttings that have been grown for a year. There are strong roots below the tile, and new roots established on top of the tile.

The roots below the tile are cut off, leaving the roots above the tile.

New roots will issue below the tile.

Trees are planted and grown vigorously for a year or 2. We are finding the best container for this work is the Anderson tray.

Here are several pictures showing the results after a few years of growth.

This technique can be used to create a great base for shohin stylings, or as the first step for growing larger trees.

First harvest of Scots pines

It has been a fantastic year of growth for all of the trees, but especially the pines. We've had these Scots pines in the ground for a few years, and have been eager to see what developed. We decided to lift several trees, and they have been potted in bonsai pots. They will be offered for sale in the spring.

We're pretty happy with the results. Several trees were lifted and potted. They will be offered for sale in the spring.