Plum Blossom Grafting Time and Method
As the first among the traditional famous flowers of China, plum blossom grafting is a necessary horticultural skill for flower enthusiasts. Mastering the correct time and method for grafting plum blossoms not only improves the survival rate but also cultivate stronger and high-quality plants. This article will analyze the entire grafting process from a practical perspective and reveal the impact of different rootstocks on plum growth.
Golden Time Selection for Plum Blossom Grafting
Key Points in Summer and Autumn
July to October is the best period for plum blossom grafting, with: • Summer grafting (July-August) using high temperatures to promote the formation of callus tissue • Autumn grafting (September-October) taking advantage of day-night temperature differences to enhance scion activity. It is especially important to avoid the rainy season, as continuous rainy weather can cause the graft joint to mildew, reducing the survival rate by over 50%. It is recommended to choose consecutive sunny days for the operation.
Detailed Explanation of Three Grafting Techniques
Bud Grafting: The Preferred Technique in the North
Select the axillary buds from the middle and upper parts of 1-2-year-old strong branches to create a shield-shaped scion. Attention should be paid to: 1. The horizontal cut should reach the xylem but not cause excessive damage 2. The vertical cut length should match the T-shaped cut of the rootstock accurately 3. When removing the xylem, retain 0.2mm of the cambium layer.
Key Points for Splitting and Abdominal Grafting Operations
• Splitting: The depth of the cut in the rootstock should be 2-3cm, and the length of the wedge-shaped cut surface of the scion should be slightly longer than the cut • Abdominal grafting: The oblique cut angle of the rootstock should be 45°, and after inserting the scion, ensure that at least one side of the cambium layers aligns. Both methods require sealing with 0.03mm thick plastic film, and leave an air hole for the bud eye when bandaging.
Scientific Scheme for Rootstock Selection
Comparison of Four Common Rootstocks
1. Peach rootstock: Graft survival rate over 90%, but the lifespan is only 8-10 years 2. Apricot rootstock: Cold-resistant, can extend the lifespan to 20 years 3. Own rootstock: Best affinity, suitable for cultivating native varieties 4. Plum rootstock:显著耐涝特性, suitable for rainy areas in the south
Experimental data has verified that using杏梅 hybrid rootstock can increase the plant's disease resistance by 40%, and it is recommended that professional growers prioritize this option.
Master these core skills of plum blossom grafting, combined with timely care and management, and you will be able to cultivate high-quality plum blossoms with beautiful flowers and vigorous growth. It is recommended for beginners to start with bud grafting, and once the technique is mastered, try other grafting methods. You will surely收获满园梅香 in practice.