The Manual of Plant Grafting

Synopsis

Practical techniques for improved plant performance! Grafting is a long-established skill that is used to improve the performance of ornamental and productive plants. Fruit trees are grafted to control their size, willows to produce attractive weeping forms, and tomatoes and melons to enhance their disease resistance. Peter MacDonald describes the latest grafting techniques for students, professionals and enthusiastic amateurs, including information on the reasons for grafting, clear instructions on the formation of the graft union, bench grafting techniques, field grafting, vegetable grafting, and cactus grafting. An A-to-Z appendix of plants features detailed information on what type of graft should be used, when it should be done, what type of root stock needs to be used, and what environment it needs to be kept in.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Plant Grafting

This chapter provides an overview of plant grafting, including its history, benefits, and applications. It explains the different types of grafts and the basic principles of graft compatibility.

Real Example:
A gardener grafts a branch of a golden delicious apple tree onto a rootstock of a more disease-resistant strain. The graft allows the desirable characteristics of the golden delicious variety to be combined with the disease resistance of the rootstock.

Chapter 2: Grafting Tools and Materials

This chapter describes the essential tools and materials required for grafting, including knives, grafting wax, and tape. It provides instructions on selecting and preparing the tools and materials for use.

Real Example:
A grafter uses a sharp knife to make precise cuts on both the scion (the branch to be grafted) and the rootstock. The cuts must be clean and angled to maximize the contact area between the two tissues.

Chapter 3: Techniques and Methods of Grafting

This chapter covers the step-by-step procedures for performing various grafting techniques, such as cleft grafting, whip-and-tongue grafting, and chip grafting. It also discusses the importance of graft alignment and securing the graft.

Real Example:
A nursery worker performs a whip-and-tongue graft by making a diagonal cut on both the scion and rootstock. The cuts are aligned and interlocked, creating a secure union between the two tissues.

Chapter 4: Stock-Scion Relationships

This chapter explores the compatibility between different stocks and scions. It explains the factors that influence graft success, such as genetic relatedness, vigor, and environmental conditions.

Real Example:
A grower selects a rootstock of a dwarf apple variety for its compact size. The rootstock is grafted with a scion of a full-size apple variety, resulting in a tree that produces high yields of large fruit on a smaller, more manageable plant.

Chapter 5: Care and Management of Grafted Plants

This chapter discusses the essential care and management practices for grafted plants, including watering, fertilizing, and pest and disease control. It also provides tips on protecting the grafts from damage and ensuring their long-term success.

Real Example:
A homeowner waters a newly grafted fruit tree regularly and monitors it for any signs of stress or disease. The graft is protected with grafting wax to prevent moisture loss and infection.