How to Graft Fruit Trees

Grafting is simply inserting a cut twig from one fruit tree into a cut in another compatible fruit tree. Creating successful crossbreeds of similar plants and other flora is very rewarding. Most same fruit varieties can be grafted easily. Almost all citrus types are compatible with other citruses.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two compatible fruit tree twigs
• Grafting tape
• Grafting wax
• Cellophane or plastic bag
• Rubber bands
• Sharp knife

1. Cut two twigs from compatible fruit tree species. Twigs should be cut at a 45 degree angle to each other to form a close bond.

2. Place twigs together allowing the small band of cells called the cambium (just under the bark layer) to match up as closely as possible.

3. Secure the two twigs together using a commercially available grafting tape. Rubber electrical tape or duct tape may also be used. Place a rubber band around the grafting site firmly but not too tightly.

4. Let the twigs fuse over two to three weeks for successful buds.

Tips & Warnings

• Cut fruit tree twigs, called scions, in late November through late December when the plant is at its most dormant. The scion should be about the thickness of a pencil or slightly bigger and about six to eight inches long. Twigs from two-year old wood with no blossoms or buds work best.
• Store cut scions in the refrigerator in plastic zipper bags. When stored properly, these twigs can be stored for many months. Dip the cut ends of the twigs in wax to seal the cut and keep them from drying out. Place twigs in plastic zipper bag along with a few drops of water.
• Once the graft starts to grow, don't cut back branches during the first season. Pinch off vigorously growing bud tips to allow healthy branching.
• Wrap your thumb with a protective layer of tape or wear a glove while cutting grafts.
• Label each scion by type and variety. Keep a written record of the grafting.
• Wrap the grafting site with cellophane or a loose plastic bag should the temperature begin to drop below 65 degrees F.
• Do not allow grafting wax to become too hot. Hot wax can damage or destroy plant tissue.
• If stock and scion are not compatible, graft failure may occur.
• Both scion and rootstock cambiums must meet precisely for a graft to survive.
• Avoid any exposure of the graft site to wind, rain, insects or animals.
• Remove tape from graft site before the area begins to stretch the tape. Remove any tight or restrictive girdling.

Resources

• Learn more about fruit trees
• Find additional tips on fruit tree grafting