Air Layering

[DEJavu]

Hi, I'm the new kid on the block looking for help.  I have had no luck in rooting cuttings and am considering trying air layering.  Has anyone had any luck with this method? I have a Rosa Sinensis I would like to start a new plant from.  Right now I have 7 cuttings in water from this plant, but if they fail I want to try something else.  Thanks.

[Charlie]

Air layering is seldom used with hibiscus but I do know of a few cases where it was tried with some success. What variety of H rosa-sinensis are you trying to root? Some varieties root readily while others won't root at all. If your plant is old, with all old wood, that could present a problem even in a variety that does root. Your best bet is with wood that is this year's growth but after it starts to turn brown and firm up.

Charlie

[DEJavu]

Charlie,
    Thanks for your advice.  I have no idea what this plant's pedigree is.  I bought it last fall when the growing season was over and watered and fed it through the winter, and it rewarded me with some blooms.  I pruned it back this spring and have those cuttings in water as you suggested.  Maybe I will just content myself with that and enjoy whatever "George" does.  This picture was taken Feb. 8th, maybe that will give you some indication of the type.