how to graft apple tree

3 min read 15-01-2025

Apple tree grafting is a rewarding technique that allows you to grow multiple varieties of apples on a single tree, or even propagate your favorite heirloom apple. It may seem daunting, but with careful preparation and attention to detail, you can successfully graft your own apple trees. This guide will walk you through the process, helping you achieve a bountiful harvest of delicious fruit.

Understanding Apple Tree Grafting

Grafting involves joining two pieces of plant tissue together, so they grow as one. In the case of apple trees, you're joining a scion (a cutting from a desired apple variety) onto a rootstock (an established root system). The rootstock provides the foundation, while the scion provides the desired fruit.

Choosing Your Scion and Rootstock

The success of your graft depends heavily on the compatibility of the scion and rootstock. Choose a scion wood from a healthy, productive apple tree of the variety you want to propagate. The scion should be dormant wood from the previous year's growth, with plump buds.

For the rootstock, you can purchase pre-grown rootstock from a reputable nursery. Consider the rootstock's characteristics, as it impacts the tree's size, growth habit, and hardiness. The rootstock and scion should be compatible – research this beforehand to ensure a successful union.

Types of Apple Tree Grafting

Several grafting methods exist, each with its nuances. We'll focus on two common and relatively easy techniques for beginners:

Whip and Tongue Graft: This method is ideal for grafting scions and rootstocks of similar diameter.
Cleft Graft: This method is suitable when the rootstock is significantly thicker than the scion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Whip and Tongue Grafting

Tools You'll Need:

Sharp grafting knife: A very sharp knife is crucial for clean cuts.
Grafting tape: Specifically designed to support the graft union.
Grafting sealant: Protects the graft from disease and moisture loss.
Scion wood: Dormant cuttings from the desired apple variety.
Rootstock: A healthy rootstock of compatible size.

Steps:

Prepare the Scion: Select a pencil-thick scion cutting about 6-8 inches long. Make a clean, angled cut (about 1-1.5 inches long) on one end, creating a sloping surface.
Prepare the Rootstock: Make a matching angled cut on the rootstock, ensuring it's the same length and angle as the scion cut.
Create the Tongue: From the end of each angled cut, make a small, vertical cut (about half an inch) to create a "tongue." The tongue from the scion should fit neatly into the tongue of the rootstock.
Join the Scion and Rootstock: Carefully interlock the tongues, ensuring the cambium layers (the thin, actively growing layer just beneath the bark) of the scion and rootstock make good contact. This is essential for the graft to heal.
Secure the Graft: Wrap the graft union tightly with grafting tape, ensuring the union is completely covered.
Apply Sealant: Apply grafting sealant over the tape to further protect the graft from drying out and disease.
Plant the Grafted Rootstock: Plant the grafted rootstock in a suitable location with well-drained soil.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleft Grafting

Tools:

Sharp grafting knife
Mallet or hammer
Grafting chisel
Grafting tape
Grafting sealant
Scion wood
Rootstock: A thicker rootstock, ideally 1-1.5 inches in diameter.

Steps:

Prepare the Rootstock: Cut the rootstock cleanly at a 45-degree angle. Using a grafting chisel, split the rootstock vertically about 1.5 inches down the center.
Prepare the Scion: Make a wedge-shaped cut on the base of the scion. The wedge should be slightly thinner than the split in the rootstock.
Insert the Scion: Gently insert the scion wedge into the split in the rootstock, ensuring that the cambium layers of the scion and rootstock make contact.
Secure the Graft: Use grafting tape to tightly secure the graft union, ensuring good contact between the scion and rootstock.
Apply Sealant: Cover the graft union with grafting sealant to protect it from drying out and disease.
Plant the Grafted Rootstock: Plant the grafted rootstock in a suitable location with well-drained soil.

Post-Grafting Care

After grafting, proper care is essential for success. Keep the grafted area moist and protect it from extreme weather conditions. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. As the graft heals, the tape can be carefully removed.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, grafts fail. Common causes include incompatible scion and rootstock, poor cambium contact, or damage to the graft union. Practice makes perfect! Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't successful.

Conclusion

Grafting apple trees is a rewarding skill that opens up a world of possibilities for home gardeners. By following these steps and choosing appropriate scions and rootstocks, you can enjoy a diverse array of delicious apples from your own orchard! Remember patience and careful technique are key for a successful apple tree graft.