Knowing how to properly do fruit tree grafting step-by-step can be crucial because you can produce different kinds of fruits from one single tree. The idea of fruit tree grafting is to combine (or fuse) some parts of the tree together so they can produce different outcomes. So, what should you know about the process?
Fruit Tree Grafting in a Nutshell
Grafting is basically a type of propagation. You can use the twigs or buds to generate new (fruit) trees. Those buds or twigs are called scionwood. Another tree’s stem or branch is called the rootstock. The rootstock would be chosen based on its tolerance to soil conditions, site suitability, and size.Grafting has been done for years – even thousands of years. Basically, you need to find the right rootstock and scionwood, and then you ‘stick’ those scionwood onto the rootstock to make a new tree. Sam Van Aken from California has created the so-called Tree of 40 Fruits where you can literally find forty different fruits from only one tree. So, on a branch, you can find peaches. On another branch, you find apricot, and also plum on another one.
How Grafting Works
Aside from following the proper fruit tree grafting step-by-step, you should also know some basic science of tree anatomy. You see, grafting is only possible when the tree has cambium. When you cut a tree branch, you will see that the inner part is somewhat green whereas the bark is brown. The green part is cambium, which is the tree’s living tissue.The Steps
So, here is the general fruit tree grafting step-by-step that you can do by yourself.- You need to gather the scionwood during winter time. You need to do it during dormant season because it would be the perfect time when the plants pause their growing.
- Make sure that the scionwood is pest and disease free. Check it thoroughly. When you make the cut, it should be similar to a pencil’s diameter and having around 16 inches (for the length).
- Label the scionwood with the cutting date and tree name.
- Store the scionwood carefully and safely. Wrap the cutting within a damp paper towel and then place it within a plastic bag. Put this package within your refrigerator until it’s spring so it will keep dormant. Remove ripening fruits from your fridge.
- You can preorder the rootstock. But do it in advance as they usually sell out quite fast.
- You should do the grafting in spring time. How to check it? If you see any fruit tree with starting-to-open buds, then it’s the right time.
Which Method to Choose?
On the contrary to what people believe, there are actually some methods to graft the tree:- Bark grafting. You need to peel off the bark so the cambium would be exposed. Afterwards, simply insert the scionwood.
- Whip and tongue grafting. It’s like pairing the puzzle parts. Make a long and slanting cut of the rootstock and scion. Place them against each other and secure them with elastic bands.
If you want to learn more about the proper way to graft the tree, you can check the internet. There are tons of how-to videos that can show you how to do it properly and correctly.