When and how to graft plum blossoms, what rootstock to use for plum blossom grafting

1. Grafting time

The time for plum blossom grafting is generally in summer or autumn, with summer mostly being July to August and autumn being September to October. The temperature is higher at this time, and the rootstock and scion are easier to heal together. If the temperature is too low, it will affect their survival. It should be noted that grafting should generally be avoided during the rainy season, because too much rain is not conducive to the recovery of the plant.

2. Grafting method

1. Bud grafting: Bud grafting is often used for plum blossom grafting in the north. Select healthy branches that are 1-2 years old, and use the plump axillary buds in the middle and upper parts as scion. First, make a horizontal cut about 0.5 cm above the axillary bud, deep enough to reach the wood. Then make a vertical cut from the left and right sides where it is usually long, cut it into a shield shape, flatten the back, and remove the wood. Make a T-shaped cut about 5-6 cm high on the rootstock, insert the scion into it, and tie it with plastic strips.

2. Cleft grafting: The cleft grafting method is relatively simple. Split the top of the rootstock in the middle to a depth of 2-3 cm. Choose healthy plum branches, preferably with buds, which are generally smaller in diameter than the rootstock. Cut its bottom into a wedge shape, then insert it into the cut of the rootstock, and wrap it with plastic film to prevent the entry of air and moisture.

3. Belly grafting: The method of belly grafting is similar to bud grafting. It is transferred obliquely from the epidermis of the rootstock, but do not cut it off. The depth is about 2-3 cm. Select suitable branches, which should not be too long. Cut the bottom into a wedge shape and insert them into the cut of the rootstock, making sure that their cambium fits tightly, and then wrap them with plastic film.

3. Rootstock Selection

There are many rootstocks to choose from for grafting plum blossoms. In addition to this rootstock, peach, mountain peach, apricot, plum and other trees are often used as rootstocks, all of which have good affinity. Among them, the survival rate of grafted peach trees is high, but the lifespan is short, while the growth of grafted apricot trees is slow, but the lifespan is longer.