Methods for Grafting Kalanchoe daigremontiana onto Kalanchoe blossfeldiana
The combination of Kalanchoe daigremontiana and Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is堪称 a golden match in the world of succulents. Through scientific grafting techniques, it can enhance the ornamental value and strengthen the plant's disease resistance. This article uses actual photos to systematically explain the five key technical points in the entire grafting process, helping you easily master this gardening skill.
Four Key Elements of Grafting Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Best Time Selection
The best grafting period is from late February to mid-March, when the day and night temperature difference is stable between 12-18°C. Choose to operate on consecutive sunny mornings, controlling the air humidity between 40%-60% to effectively prevent mold in the incision area, which can increase the grafting success rate by more than 65% compared to the rainy season.
Scion Treatment Norms
Select strong branches from the third to fourth pair of leaves at the top, use a curved moon-shaped grafting knife disinfected with alcohol to make a 45-degree diagonal cut forming a 2cm wedge-shaped incision. Focus on retaining the top two new leaves, and let the incision dry in a ventilated shade for 30 minutes to form a protective film.
Stock Transformation Standards
When using Kalanchoe daigremontiana as the stock, retain a main stem of 15-20cm and cut the top, then use a double-edged knife to make a 3cm deep vertical cut at the center of the cross-section. Note to control water 3 days in advance to make the plant slightly dehydrated, which can significantly increase the activity of the cambium cells.
Grafting and Fixing Techniques
Use the cleft grafting method to completely insert the wedge-shaped surface of the scion into the stock incision, and wrap it with 0.03mm plastic wrap with a 50% stretch. Focus on sealing the upper edge of the joint and keep the bag moist for 7 days, then gradually increase the ventilation time.
Key Points for Post-Grafting Care
After grafting, place it in a scattered light environment and avoid direct watering for the first 15 days. When the new buds grow to 2cm, make 3-5 breathable holes in the film with a toothpick. Supplementing phosphorus and potassium fertilizers every month can accelerate the fusion of the vascular bundles, and usually, the binding material can be completely removed after 25-35 days.
Mastering the spatial and temporal coordination and trauma treatment techniques for grafting Kalanchoe daigremontiana onto Kalanchoe blossfeldiana can keep the survival rate stable at over 85%. It is recommended for beginners to start practicing with easy-to-operate stocks like the celestial pole and gradually master core techniques such as aligning the cambium layers.