Rose Bud Grafting Steps
Rose bud grafting is the most commonly used asexual propagation technique among flower enthusiasts. Scientific grafting can effectively preserve the characteristics of the variety. Mastering the correct grafting method can increase the survival rate of roses to over 90%. This article will explain the entire rose grafting process through 6 core steps, accompanied by a growth cycle diagram to help you easily cultivate high-quality roses.
Core Process of Rose Bud Grafting
Optimal Timing Selection
The golden period for grafting is from mid-May to mid-June, when the daytime temperature stabilizes at 20-25°C, the day-night temperature difference is ≤8°C, and the air humidity is maintained at around 65%RH. It is necessary to avoid continuous rainy weather and choose a sunny morning from 8-10 am, as the plant's transpiration is relatively weak at this time, and the formation speed of callus is the fastest.
Rootstock Treatment Specifications
Two-year-old wild rose seedlings are preferred, with a ground diameter of 0.5-0.8 cm. The rootstock should be cut flat 5 cm from the ground, and after disinfecting the tool with alcohol, a T-shaped incision 2 cm long is made along the cambium layer, with the depth of the cut reaching the xylem.
Scion Preparation Key Points
Select semi-woody branches from the current year, retaining 3-4 plump buds. Use the shield-shaped bud slice cutting method: make a 30° angle cut 1 cm above the bud and slide down to 2 cm below the bud, completely removing the bud slice with the cambium layer. Wear latex gloves during operation to prevent oil contamination of the cut.
Grafting and Bandaging Techniques
Embed the bud slice into the T-shaped incision of the rootstock, ensuring that at least one side of the cambium layer aligns. Use 0.04mm thick grafting film to wrap from bottom to top, with the tightness allowing the incision to be seen but not letting water seep through. Focus on bandaging the bud eye area, but leave the bud point exposed to ensure normal germination.
Post-Grafting Maintenance Management
Set up a shade net within 15 days after grafting to maintain scattered light. Check the tightness of the bandage every 3 days, and after 20 days, when the bud point swells, it indicates survival. Timely remove the suckers from the rootstock and gradually loosen the bandage when the new shoot reaches 15 cm, along with applying phosphorus-potassium fertilizer to promote lignification.
By precisely grasping the timing and standardizing the operation process, the success rate of rose bud grafting can be significantly improved. It is recommended to save this article's grafting diagram for reference, and gradually master the minimally invasive grafting technique through practice, to cultivate high-quality roses with excellent traits of the mother plant.