What Trees Can Roses Be Grafted Onto?
Roses, as one of the most popular ornamental flowers, have their grafting technique directly affecting the plant's growth and the quality of blooming. Mastering the correct selection of rootstock and grafting methods can improve the color of the roses, enhance disease resistance, and achieve other special effects. This article will comprehensively analyze the core points of rose grafting, from the variety of rootstock to the practical operation steps.
Guide to Choosing Rootstock for Roses
1.1 High-Quality Rootstock from the Rosaceae Family
Wild species from the same Rosaceae family are the preferred choice, with wild roses being a mainstream option due to their strong root systems and resistance to adversity. They have a compatibility rate of up to 95% with roses. Japanese thornless roses, which are easy to handle due to their lack of thorns, are especially suitable for beginners. Pink pompon roses can enhance the cold resistance of roses, while tea-scented roses can extend the blooming period.
1.2 Special Function Rootstock
Dutch rose rootstock can achieve multicolored coexistence, and large-leafed roses can be cultivated into tree-like forms. The recently emerging fragrant rose rootstock can increase the fragrance concentration by 30%. It is important to avoid using different genera such as Chinese roses, as their grafting survival rate is less than 40%.
Four-Step Grafting Method for Roses
2.1 Best Timing Control
The survival rate reaches 90% when grafting in March during the flowing of sap in spring. In summer, grafting should avoid the rainy season, and in autumn, mid-September is ideal. In southern regions, it can be extended to early October, while in the north, it should be completed 20 days before the first frost.
2.2 Fine Processing of Rootstock
Select robust branches with a diameter of 0.8-1.2 cm, and make a T-shaped cut 1 cm above the bud point, reaching 1/3 of the xylem. Maintain a 45-degree angle on the cut to form a 2cm×1cm grafting interface.
2.3 Key Points for Scion Preparation
Choose semi-lignified scions, retaining 1-2 full bud points. Use a sterilized blade to cut a 1.5cm wedge-shaped surface, with the cutting process not exceeding 20 seconds to avoid tissue oxidation.
2.4 Grafting Fixation Techniques
Align the cambium layer of the scion with the rootstock and wrap with 0.04mm plastic wrap for 5-6 layers. Cover with a transparent plastic bag to keep moist, and gradually ventilate after 20 days. The success rate can reach 85%.
Scientific Care After Grafting
After new buds sprout, spray phosphorus and potassium fertilizers weekly, maintaining a soil pH of 6.0-6.5. In the following spring, perform shaping pruning, retaining 3-5 main branches. Pay special attention to controlling aphids and black spot disease to ensure the healthy growth of the grafted seedlings.