Have you ever dreamed of creating a fruit market in your own backyard, with multiple different varieties of apples or plums on just one tree? You can become a tree artist just by adopting the skill of grafting. Tree grafting is ancient and practiced throughout the world. I saw it firsthand on a recent trip to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, used by a family nursery to supply jackfruit trees to Saigon markets.
Grafting is the process of joining two or more trees to grow as a single plant. In most cases, one tree provides the roots, root crown, and lower trunk, collectively known as the rootstock, while other tree branches furnish the upper leafing, flowering, and fruiting parts, known as scions. The new tree takes on the best qualities of each part. Commonly, rootstock may offer disease resistance and hardiness to cold, while the scions offer different fruit varieties side-by-side.
Home gardening hobbyists are fascinated by these “fruit salad” trees. Grown typically for confined spaces, these trees bear several types of stone fruits on a single tree. If you adopt a few simple grafting techniques, you, too can develop your own “fruit salad” trees. Just follow the steps below.
Pick out a healthy, disease-resistant rootstock that is compatible with your choice of scion tree parts. Your friendly garden center staff can help you choose.
Choose one or multiple scion branches from existing healthy fruit trees or purchased from a garden center. Scions are typically available at the same time as bare-root trees in late winter which is now. You can also purchase healthy fruit tree scions online.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts for a snug fit between the graft surfaces. The most common home grafting technique for adding new scion branches of one-inch or less in diameter to an existing tree is called “T-bud” (see diagram):
Make a T-shaped cut in the existing fruit tree branch where you would like the new bud branch to grow (A & B).
Cut off a single bud under the cambium layer (green, growing tissue just beneath the bark) or a short length of branch with a couple of buds (C).
Narrow the thicker end of the bud or branch into a sliver (C).
Insert the bud or sliver into the T-cut on the existing tree branch (D) then align the cambium layers of both parts as closely as possible to achieve successful fusion.
Secure the graft union tightly with grafting tape or rubber bands, with no gaps to prevent drying out or infection (E). Grafting wax or tree wound dressings can reduce this threat also. Follow the container instructions.
Keep the grafted plant in a sheltered location out of direct sun and wind until new growth appears, indicating a successful union. This typically takes 30-40 days in mild spring weather. Then in 60-90 days, your grafted combo will be ready to transplant into its permanent spot.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR) provides literally dozens of grafting technique videos on their YouTube channel. Just search for “UCANR grafting videos”. Many are introductory videos for home gardening enthusiasts. With time, practiced technique, and imagination, your garden will become home to some interesting and productive fruit trees to amaze your friends and family.
Seasonal Notes: January is a good time for planning, cleaning, and preparing for your next garden bed, fruit tree, or landscaping project.
Order and start seeds indoors or in a greenhouse. Clean your garden tools and apply a protective coat of linseed oil after tools dry.
For easy and effective sharpening, a tungsten carbide sharpening tool is essential.
Email comments and questions to: NakedGardener@diablogazette.com.