How to Graft Navel Orange Trees

Navel orange trees can produce fruit for up to 100 years.

Navel oranges have been grown in the United States since the late 1800s and, thanks to grafting, navel oranges today have the same genetic makeup as oranges many years ago. Budding is a popular method of grafting for fruit trees and takes place during the summertime when bud growth is plentiful.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Rubber bindings

Instructions

1. Cut bud shoots from the cultivar tree, choosing shoots that have strong growth and buds with a slightly brownish color.

2. Clip the leaves on the shoots, leaving about 1/4 inch on each leafstalk. After removing the leaves, wrap the shoots in a wet paper towel or burlap to ensure that they will not dry out before being attached to a new tree.

3. Make a "T"-shaped cut in the branch of the tree where the buds will be placed. Ideally, the cut will be made at least 15 inches from the trunk.

4. Lift the corners of the "T" cut with a knife or other tool, carefully loosening the bark.

5. Cut a bud from the bud stick, leaving a small amount of wood in place under the bud.

6. Open the flaps on the tree branch and place the bud inside. Insert the bud in a downward movement, ideally holding onto a leafstalk handle.

7. Tie the bud in place with rubber strips or electrical tape. Remove the bindings after about two weeks.

References

• Paramount Citrus: The History of the Naval Orange
• University of Minnesota Extension: Grafting and Budding Fruit Trees