Traditional methods such as seed sowing and vegetative propagation have long been employed for plant propagation. However, recent technological advancements have introduced innovative techniques like air layering, which offer new possibilities. One such method gaining significant attention is the use of cloning balls or pods, particularly the DynaBall by PBR International. Introduced two years ago, this air-layering product has demonstrated success in ongoing trials, including enabling the first-ever successful rooting of the critically endangered 'Yellow Peeling Plain Tree.' In this article, Paul Greve, Business Development Executive at PBR International, elaborates on the advantages of this product and its functionality.
DynaBall
The DynaBall, developed by PBR International in South Africa, has revolutionized air layering, making it a simple and functional propagation method for a wide range of individuals and industries. Its user base spans from home gardeners and novice horticulturists to professional and commercial growers of horticultural, agricultural, and floricultural products. The DynaBall is available in three color options: green, transparent, and hybrid (half green and half transparent). As Greve explains, "Our green DynaBall is UV protected, whereas the transparent ball allows for observing root development in real-time."
Functionality
Air layering involves inducing roots to develop on a stem while it remains attached to the parent plant. The process and functionality of the DynaBall are clearly demonstrated in the accompanying image and video, where Terry Erasmus showcases how to utilize DynaBalls for air layering a Shishigashira Japanese maple.
Extensive Trials
Various trials have been conducted using the DynaBall, such as the DynaBall Trials at Spier Nursery and the DynaBall Trials at UNISA, further showcasing its effectiveness and versatility in plant propagation.
First-ever successful rooting of the critically endangered 'Yellow Peeling Plain Tree'
Greve and the team at PBR International achieved a significant milestone with the DynaBall by enabling the first-ever successful rooting of the critically endangered 'Yellow Peeling Plain Tree' (also known as Mutavhatsindi in Tshivenda). Despite unsuccessful attempts with other propagation methods, the manipulation of Plant Growth Regulators using the air layering method and DynaBall yielded positive results. This accomplishment not only highlights the potential of the DynaBall but also emphasizes its impact on conservation efforts. For more details, please refer to the complete article." Click here to read the complete article.
Advantages
Using cloning balls for air-layering propagation offers numerous advantages, as summarised by Greve:
- Increased success rate: DynaBalls create a controlled environment around the stem, providing optimal conditions for root growth.
- Protection & nourishment: DynaBalls act as protective enclosures, creating a safe and nurturing environment for developing roots during the air-layering process.
- Increased flexibility & convenience: DynaBalls offer precise control over the air-layering process, allowing gardeners and horticulturists to propagate specific plant varieties or even rare species with ease.
- Time efficiency: DynaBalls accelerate the propagation process, saving time for growers.
- Minimized damage to the parent plant: By inducing root growth while the stem remains attached, this method ensures a continuous flow of nutrients from the parent plant to the developing roots, keeping the parent plant healthy and unaffected.
For more detailed information on the benefits of using DynaBalls, click here.
For more information:
Paul Greve 
PBR International
Email: [email protected]
www.pbrtrading.com