I might use a plastic bag next to the branch/peat, but you can still cover it with aluminum after that layer.

Thanks sounds great! I've rooted lots of cuttings but have not tried this method and a friend from Florida mentioned it to me several years ago.

I would not air layer anything that can be propagated any other way. It is slow and labor intensive compared to other methods. Al

Here's a thread I started on a different forum (I don't remember the forum rules here so ...go easy on me). I wanted roots on a different location on a Japanese maple seedling I had.

(I'm working on a trident maple right now that's wrapped in sphagnum with plastic around that (and wire to hold it tight) and aluminum foil outside that to keep it dark.)

Here is a link that might be useful: Separated a pot layered twin trunk japanese maple

I think airlayering is one of the least labour intensive way to get a larger plant if compared with having to start plants from cuttings. I used these methods on roses and other semi-tropical plants. In my case, i used peat moss, perforated plastic, some wires to tie the ends and that was it. No need for growth hormones, I don't know why tinfoil is necessary unless it's needed to retain heat. I however prefer just plastic, perforated so air and water can get in.

I tried airlayering some anna hardy kiwis this year and all five attempts failed. I am not trying layer them in soil. T simply buried the middle of a branch and am keeping it wet. I should know in about 6 weeks it it works.

How did things turn out Charlie? Really Appreciate all the above information posted.