2022 September 8

Seeing how easily this plant roots, but also rots and wilts it occurred to me that air layering might be simpler than taking cuttings. I used Sphagnum moss, a zip lock bag with the seam on both sides cut open and twist ties. I put the zip lock around the branch and zipped the top closed. Then I rolled the bag up starting with the zipper so that it was tight against the branch. Put a twist tie on the bottom. Stuffed the rung out moss in the top. Then put a twist tie around the top. I did not use any rooting hormone and I didn’t make any cuts or scrapes in the plant. I covered the layer with aluminum to protect it from the sun. I also set a reminder to check on the layer once a week to be sure it doesn’t dry out and to check for roots.

2022 October 30

Removed later and planted in the front yard.

2022 December 30

This planet has been growing steadily through the winter. I cover it every night with frost cloth and use lights on a thermostat (50F) for heat.

2023 April 3

This plant had become very bushy but blew over in the wind today. I cut it up and put it in water to see if any prices would root.

2023 April 22

I put the six cuttings with the most roots in pots.

2023 November 9

These plants have done really well in full sun. They are 6 feet tall and covered in fruit right now.