I notched this over the weekend, still early, but it seems like it's pushing. Should have done this a month ago, but maybe the tree will get one more growth flush in before winter. I'll keep this thread updated with results.
Having air-layered several trees in the last two years, the full girdle of the branch/trunk that Skan displayed is definitely a proven method of forcing buds, but it also seems ~maybe~ detrimental to the growth above the girdle. Skan does it when he intends to top, but I want the branch/trunk above the bud I'm (hopefully) forcing to continue to grow.
Hopefully some more experienced growers can chime in. Does a full girdle around a branch, breaking the cambium layer and sap flow, have a detrimental long-term effect on growth above the girdle?