How to graft azalea

1. Time

The method we use is actually better, but due to environmental reasons, we have to control the time. It is better to carry out this operation from May to June because the plum rain will also come during this period.

2. Rootstock

Generally, we use a two-year-old Rhododendron with a very good independent trunk as the rootstock. One thing we need to understand is that plants of different genus cannot be used as rootstocks, as the affinity will be much weaker. In addition, the thickness of the new shoots and the scion should be consistent. Generally, the varieties we use are Jade Butterfly and Purple Butterfly. Moreover, it is best to use the young branches of Azalea that have grown in the same year and are relatively strong.

3. Operation

The specific operation we need to do is relatively simple. First, we need to select tender shoots about three or four centimeters long on the mother plant, and then remove the leaves below, leaving only three or four leaves on the top. After that, we cut the bottom and make it into a wedge shape, and control the length of the cut surface to about 0.5 to 1 centimeter. Cut off the new shoots grown by the azalea at two or three centimeters, then remove the leaves in this section, cut about one centimeter vertically, insert the scion, and then align the cortex and cambium, and then tie it with plastic film or strips. After that, we have to put the scion into the plastic film, tie the bag tightly, and maintain good humidity and temperature.

After completion, we have to put it under a cool greenhouse, and we must not let it be exposed to direct sunlight. We should also pay attention to whether there are water droplets in the bag. If not, we need to untie it and spray it with water, and then tie the scion again. Generally, if the scion does not wilt within a week after grafting, it will be successful. We can remove the bag after about two months and untie the tape in the spring of next year. Generally, the survival rate is very high in this way, and there will be several colors on one plant, which looks very beautiful. This is also the benefit of grafting.