A Detailed Guide to the Latest Grafting Methods for Walnut Saplings
Walnut is one of our favorite nuts, and many farmers graft it when planting, as this can improve the quality and yield of walnuts. So when should walnuts be grafted, and how exactly should it be done? Follow along with Qinnong Web to take a look at the grafting methods for walnut saplings.
1. Collecting scions
Collect scions before the walnut leaves fall. Select plants that are growing vigorously, well developed and disease-free, and cut branches about 1.5cm thick from the current year's growth. Take measures against water loss. When collecting scions in cold seasons, be sure to wrap the wounds with paraffin, then place them in a moist environment. Take them out 2-3 days before grafting begins to awaken them from dormancy and promote bark slipping.
2. Rootstock treatment
The rootstock must likewise be from a strong tree. The rootstock joint position is best chosen where the thickness is 3-10cm. Before grafting, make a wound at the base of the tree to release water; doing this can reduce the effect of tree bleeding on the grafting survival rate. You can also cut off one or two roots of the tree after grafting.
3. Grafting
Cut the prepared scion, keeping only two or three buds, and whittle the base into a wedge shape. Then split the rootstock, flatten the spot on the rootstock where the scion will go, and make a suitably sized opening in the middle. Insert the whittled scion into the split, pressing them tightly together. Be careful not to insert the wound completely; leave a part exposed, which helps the wound heal. Then wrap and tie the joint with plastic film, covering the wound completely and leaving only the buds outside.
4. Post-grafting management
Walnut trees differ from other trees. Many tree species must be watered immediately after grafting, but this one is different: do not water within half a month after grafting, otherwise the wound will bleed more, and in the end the joint will accumulate a large amount of water and the survival rate will drop. Check frequently; if too much water accumulates at the joint, release it promptly. But when the scion begins to sprout, slowly open the wrapping film to increase ventilation, and never open it all at once. Once the graft has taken, loosen the film promptly. Care for the grafted seedlings carefully; small sticks can be used as supports to secure them, to prevent wind breakage and growth along the ground.
The above is the grafting method for walnut saplings brought to you by Qinnong Web. That is all for the grafting method of walnuts. If you are still interested in related agricultural knowledge, please stay tuned to Qinnong Web.