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A couple months ago, I wrote a blog about introduction to grafting (https://bit.ly/2RJARMO). It was new and exciting to me since I haven’t heard of it before. During my research, I discovered that there are many different techniques to grafting. This time around I’ll go into more detail on the different ways to graft. We briefly touched upon the whip and tongue technique, since it’s one of the easiest ways to graft, but now I will introduce 3 more techniques to help with your tree grafting needs. I have also chosen these techniques as they are best successful during our current winter to very early spring.
[image source: http://www.fruitmentor.com/grafting-citrus-trees-cleft-graft ]
First grafting technique we will look at used is called the cleft grafting. Cleft grafting is the ability to graft a large rootstock (The part of the plant that another plant is grafted into. This plant is rooted into the ground) to smaller scion pieces (a young shoot or twig of a plant that is grafted to the rootstock). It is usually done during the winter season while the plants are domit. The name stems from the process of cutting the rootstock, creating a split or cleft in the center.
Two scion pieces are usually used and placed on each end of the cleft. It is best to use a scion that has 3 to 5 buds on it and is around 4-6 inches in length. Scions should be cut as a slope angle that matches the cleft angle. When inserted, the scion and rootstock should flush perfectly. The finishing touches is adding grafting wax to help with the healing process.
[Image source: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/grafting-and-budding-nursery-crop-plants]
This next method is a little similar to whip method. It involves matching one stock and scion of similar diameter. Rootstock should be created by cutting in upward strokes on two opposite sides using a grafting knife. It should look like a point or inverted V. The scion should be a reverse of the stock. You should be able to fit the scion and the stock together completing a whole portion. After placing the two parts into one, wrap with grafting tape and seal with grafting wax.
[Image source: http://etc.usf.edu/clipart/51200/51209/51209_saddle_graft.htm]
Last technique that I’ll be going over is usually used at the top of a flowering or fruiting trees. This method also makes it possible to graft several different scions on one rootstock. This of course is called the bark grafting.
The preparation of the rootstock starts with cutting the branch. Using a sharp saw or some variation of this is important as you will want to leave a clean cut. If there is some damage to the branch, you will want to cut an inch or two below the damage spot. It is important to connect the scion to a healthy and fresh end exposed. For the scion you’ll want to cut 1 ½ inch to 2 inch off the bottom with a wedge design. Usually several scions are prepared as you can place multiple scions on the rootstock.
In the rootstock you will want to cut about an inch or two along the side of the bark and pull it out just enough to place the scion into it. Insert the scions, wedging it between the bark of the stock. After replacing the back flap, hammer a nail to the scion into the rootstock. Last is to cover the surface with grafting wax. As the scions grow, pick the healthiest and largest one pruning out the rest.
[Image source: https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/chiwonlee/plsc368/student/papers02/jbrockpahler/jprockpahler.htm]
When I first heard about grafting I had no idea that so many different methods existed. Now visiting different nurseries and gardens I see several real life examples of the graft techniques. Now that you have learned several of these, take a look yourself. You might be surprised by what you find.
[Noticed at champa nursery during a tour]
Information sources:
https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/grafting-and-budding-nursery-crop-plants
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/propagation/cleftgrafting/cleftgrafting.html
https://www.gardeningdata.co.uk/powen/advanced/propagation/saddle-grafting.php
https://goodlifepermaculture.com.au/how-to-do-a-bark-graft/
http://homeorchard.ucdavis.edu/barkgrafting.pdf
