When is the best time to graft pear trees for a high survival rate? A detailed explanation of grafting methods
The fruit of the pear tree is edible and has very high nutritional and medicinal value. China's pear cultivation area and output are second only to apples, and grafting is a propagation method that ensures high and abundant pear yields. So, when is the best time to graft pear trees for a high survival rate? What grafting methods are there? According to fruit farmer Uncle Lin, spring and autumn are the best seasons for grafting pear trees. In spring the sap flows upward, and in autumn nutrients are stored downward. These two seasons are when the cambium is most active, so the grafting survival rate is relatively high.
Pear tree grafting methods
For branch grafting of pear trees, the “big head cut” method can be used, that is, select four main branches with suitable directions on the lower level, saw them off at a point one chi and a half from the trunk, and graft on them. If they are too close to the main trunk, the branches after surviving will grow upright and cause crowding; if they are too far from the main trunk, it is easy for the fruiting position to shift outward and the inner canopy to become empty. For the central leader, saw it off at 1.5-1.8 m above the ground and graft on it. To save scions, remove all the remaining branches.
The most commonly used method on pear trees is cleft grafting, and this method can be used for main branches with a diameter of 5-6 cm. First shave the sawed rootstock with a knife to expose the cambium, then split it open from the middle with a knife. Cut the scion into a wedge shape; the cut surface should be flat and smooth. Insert the scion into the rootstock, making sure the cambium aligns with the cambium, with the top exposed white and the bottom left hollow. Graft two scions on each main branch, seal the outside tightly with mud, and then wrap it well with plastic film. That completes the graft.
For thicker main branches, the insertion grafting method can be used. First shave the rootstock with a knife to expose the cambium, then insert a bamboo skewer first to make it easier to insert the scion. Then cut the scion into a horseshoe shape, shave off two-thirds of the outer bark on the back of the horseshoe shape, and insert the prepared scion into the rootstock. Seal the outside tightly with mud, then seal it tightly with plastic film. Insert three scions on each main branch. That completes the graft.
For pear trees with a lopsided crown, the side grafting method can be used. In the direction where branches are missing, first cut a triangular opening in the bark of the main branch, insert a bamboo skewer first, then cut the scion into a horseshoe shape, remove the outer bark on the back of the horseshoe shape, and insert the prepared scion into the bark. Seal the outside tightly with mud, then seal it tightly with plastic film. That completes the graft.
Main values of pear trees
Pear trees have ornamental value. Besides their sweet fruit and elegant flowers, pear trees also have a distinctive tree form beauty, making them suitable for viewing around residences and for courtyard cultivation.
Pear fruit has the function of promoting fluid production and quenching thirst, and clearing accumulated heat in the stomach and intestines.