How to Graft a Fruit Tree

Grafted Fruit Tree

If you're trying to start an orchard and want to ensure you get good fruit, the only way to do that is by grafting. Grafting is also the best way to save a tree that has been damaged or broken. When you graft, you're simply taking a twig or a branch from one fruit tree and inserting it into another. Grafting is an essential step for any fruit tree that you want to create good, eatable fruit and a healthy tree. In fact, almost every tree you get in a nursery has been previously grafted by the grower. Grafts allow you to make the strongest, healthiest tree possible.

Things You'll Need

• Two compatible fruit trees
• Grafting tape/Electrical tape
• Plastic bag /Cellophane
• Saw/sharp knife
• Rubber bands

Instructions

1. Cut the budding branch.Start by using the saw for large branches or the sharp knife for small ones to cut the budding branch on a 45-degree angle so you can properly attach it to the fruit tree. This allows for a close bond so the branch has a better chance of surviving and thriving.

2. Match the branches together.Match the two cut branches together and secure them together using the grafting or electrical tape. Then, completely secure it with the rubber bands. Wrap it so that it's tight - you want your graft to take hold – but don't wrap it too tightly and cut off circulation.

3. Cover the graft. Using the paper bag or some cellophane, cover the graft to protect it from rain, bugs and excessive sunlight. Check it frequently for earwigs, spiders, ants and other bugs and remove them if they're there.

4. Let the branches grow together.Let the branches fuse together and grow. This can take anywhere from two to four weeks, but you will eventually notice the new branch budding and growing. When you see that the grafted branch is growing, you can remove the paper bag, the rubber bands and the grafting tape, and the branch will grow on its own.

5. Graft several branches to ensure that the tree will grow strongly. It will help your orchard/fruit tree grow faster and produce more fruit. If you're grafting small sticks into thick branches, you can put more than one stick into each branch.

Tips & Warnings

• Graft several branches to ensure that the tree will grow strongly. It will help your orchard/fruit tree grow faster and produce more fruit. If you're grafting small sticks into thick branches, you can put more than one stick into each branch.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Read this Article in Portuguese
• Graft Fruit Trees
• Grafting Methods
• Grafting Fruit Trees