Collecting/Airlayering Blackthorn

There are lots of blackthorn locally, but I have not found any that appear to be collectable, let alone a "decent" one that is collectable. Most small ones are sucker growth connected to larger trees by a huge root, and those which are single trees all appear to have one single very deep tap root. I wondered if air layering would be the best method of collection? Anybody have any experience and know what sort of maximum trunk girth is likely to be succesfull? Any tips for collecting at all?

Regards, Lee.

That'll be a no then?

Possibly the Spinosa kids are all busy getting ready for Best of British and not paying enough attention on here.

Wish they'd pop in long enough to answer as I too am eagerly awaiting the replies.


Oi!! You lot! Where are you?

Hello Lee. I don't see any problem with airlayering old Blackthorn. I have cut back big old roots on Sloe and they have no problem issuing new roots. Try something less important as a trial?

It's one species I've never air-layered, so I can only respond that every other Prunus I've ever tried worked, using the usual methods. That includes P avium, P subhirtella, P mahaleb and Prunus serrula. I'd give it a go as I think you stand a very good chance with it at this time of year.

will baddeley wrote:Hello Lee. I don't see any problem with airlayering old Blackthorn. I have cut back big old roots on Sloe and they have no problem issuing new roots. Try something less important as a trial?

Thanks for that Will. I guess now would be a good time to have a go?