Basic Grafting Techniques for Fruit Trees

Introduction to Grafting

Grafting is the art of joining two plant parts together so they grow as one. This technique allows you to combine the desirable fruiting characteristics of one variety (the scion) with the root system of another (the rootstock). Whether you're preserving heirloom varieties or creating multi-variety trees, grafting is an essential skill for any serious fruit grower.

When to Graft

Timing is critical for successful grafting:

• Late Winter to Early Spring (February-April): Best time for most grafting techniques. Scion wood should be dormant while rootstock is just beginning to show signs of growth.
• Bark Grafting: Performed when bark slips easily, typically late spring.
• Bud Grafting: Mid to late summer when bark slips and buds are mature.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Sharp grafting knife or razor blade
• Grafting tape or parafilm
• Grafting wax or sealer
• Rubbing alcohol for sterilization
• Scion wood (dormant, pencil-thick shoots)
• Compatible rootstock

Whip and Tongue Graft

This is the most common and strongest graft for joining scion and rootstock of similar diameter (pencil-thick).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rootstock: Make a smooth, diagonal cut about 1-2 inches long at a 45-degree angle.
2. Create the Tongue: Starting about 1/3 down from the tip of the cut, make a downward cut about 1/2 inch deep into the wood. This creates the "tongue."
3. Prepare the Scion: Make matching cuts on the bottom of your scion wood, creating a mirror image of the rootstock cuts.
4. Join the Pieces: Slide the tongue of the scion into the tongue of the rootstock. The cambium layers (green layer just under the bark) must align on at least one side.
5. Wrap Tightly: Use grafting tape or parafilm to wrap the union firmly, ensuring no gaps where air or moisture can enter.
6. Seal: Apply grafting wax to any exposed cuts.

Cleft Graft

Ideal for grafting onto larger rootstock or for top-working established trees. Works best when rootstock is 1-4 inches in diameter.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut the Rootstock: Make a clean, horizontal cut through the rootstock branch or trunk.
2. Split the Rootstock: Using a grafting tool or chisel, make a 2-3 inch deep split down the center of the cut surface.
3. Prepare the Scions: Cut the bottom of each scion into a long, thin wedge shape, about 2 inches long.
4. Insert Scions: Place one or two scions into the cleft, aligning the cambium of the scion with the cambium of the rootstock. Position scions toward the outer edge of the cleft.
5. Remove Wedge Tool: The natural pressure of the rootstock will hold the scions in place.
6. Seal Thoroughly: Cover all cut surfaces with grafting wax to prevent drying.

Bark Graft

Used when the bark is slipping easily in spring. Good for larger rootstock when the bark peels readily.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut the Rootstock: Make a clean, horizontal cut through the branch.
2. Slit the Bark: Make a vertical cut through the bark only, about 2 inches long.
3. Prepare the Scion: Cut the bottom of the scion at a sharp angle, creating a 2-inch long cut on one side.
4. Insert the Scion: Lift the bark carefully and slide the scion underneath, cut side against the wood.
5. Secure: Nail or tape the scion in place.
6. Seal: Cover all wounds with grafting wax.

Aftercare

• Check grafts regularly for the first few weeks.
• Remove any shoots growing from the rootstock below the graft.
• Protect young grafts from wind damage with stakes if needed.
• Keep the grafting tape in place for at least one growing season.
• Water regularly but don't overwater.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Poor Cambium Alignment: The most common cause of failure. At least one side must align perfectly.
• Dull Knife: Ragged cuts won't heal properly. Use a razor-sharp blade.
• Contamination: Sterilize tools between cuts to prevent disease transmission.
• Drying Out: Work quickly and seal all cuts immediately.
• Wrong Timing: Grafting too early or too late dramatically reduces success rates.

Success Rate Expectations

With proper technique and timing, you can expect:

• Whip and Tongue: 80-90% success rate
• Cleft Graft: 70-85% success rate
• Bark Graft: 75-90% success rate (when bark is slipping well)

Practice makes perfect! Start with easy-to-graft species like apples before moving to more challenging trees like cherries or persimmons.