Asexual Propagation Grafting

Plant Propagation Asexual PropagationGrafting Original work from “Applied Technologies” edited and used with permission by Dr. Teri Hamlin

Table of Contents • Introduction to Plant Propagation • Sexual Propagation • Asexual Propagation • Stem, Leaf, Cuttings • Layering • Separation & Division • Budding and Grafting • Tissue Culture

Grafting • Grafting is a process by which two different plants are united so that they grow as one.

Grafting TERMS • Scion - the newly installed shoot or top of the plant • Rootstock - the seedling or plant used as the bottom half of the graft

Scion Rootstock

This is a REAL neat trick, but it doesn’t seem practical. Why would you choose to use it?

Reasons for Grafting: • To insert a different variety on part of the limbs of trees for cross-pollination • Obtain benefits of certain rootstocks

Benefits: • Disease resistant rootstocks • Stronger root systems • Dwarfing capabilities

Requirements for Success • Stock and Scion must be compatible • Cambium layers must match *Can’t graft monocots --Why? • Timing - scion should be dormant (NOT actively growing)

Types of Grafts • Whip Graft -- used when stock & scion are small and are the same size • Cleft Graft -- used in topworking trees -- stock is usually much larger than scion

Budding

Budding • Actually a form of grafting • A single bud is used instead of a scion • Budding is quicker • 2 main types: - T-budding & Chip Budding

T-budding • Scion and Rootstock must be compatible • Bark must be slipping • Examples: apples, pears, peaches, plums, cherries, and roses

Chip Budding • Very similar to T-budding • Advantage: wood can be dormant, bark doesn’t have to slip • Widely used for grapes

Asexual Propagation Grafting