Creating a duo apple tree through grafting is a rewarding way to grow two different apple varieties on the same tree. Grafting involves attaching a shoot or bud (called a scion) of one apple variety to the rootstock of another apple tree, which provides the root system and lower trunk. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own duo apple tree.
Step 1: Select the Rootstock
- Choose a Healthy Tree: Start with a healthy, disease-free apple tree to serve as your rootstock. This tree will form the root system for the grafted duo apple tree.
- Compatibility: Make sure the rootstock you choose is compatible with the apple varieties you want to graft. Certain rootstocks are better suited for particular climates and growing conditions.
Step 2: Choose Scion Wood
- Selection: Choose healthy, disease-free scion wood (the shoots or buds) from the apple varieties you want to graft. Select well-developed wood for the best chances of success.
- Time of Collection: Collect the scion wood during the tree’s dormant period, usually in late winter or early spring. Store the wood in a cool, moist environment until you’re ready to graft.
Step 3: Prepare the Rootstock
- Grafting Time: The best time to graft is when the rootstock is coming out of dormancy, typically in early spring, when the tree is beginning to show signs of growth.
- Cutting: Make a clean, slanted cut on the rootstock at the location where you want to add the new variety. The cut should be smooth to ensure a proper fit with the scion.
Step 4: Prepare the Scion
- Cutting: At the base of the scion, make a corresponding slanted cut. The cut should be smooth and match the angle of the cut on the rootstock.
- Trimming: Trim the scion to leave 2-3 buds. This will help focus the plant’s energy on the new growth.
Step 5: Grafting
- Joining: Join the cut surfaces of the scion and rootstock. Ensure that the cambium layers (the thin layer of tissue between the bark and wood) of both pieces are aligned. This alignment is crucial for successful grafting.
- Securing: Secure the graft union tightly with grafting tape or rubber bands to hold the scion in place and prevent it from shifting.
Step 6: Healing and Protection
- Waxing: Seal the graft union with grafting wax to prevent moisture loss and protect the graft from diseases and pests.
- Support: Stake the scion for additional support while the graft union heals.
- Protection: Shield the grafted tree from extreme weather conditions (such as frost or direct sunlight) until the graft is fully healed and the scion begins to grow.
Step 7: Care for the Grafted Tree
- Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Proper moisture levels are essential for root development and graft success.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth during the growing season.
- Pruning: Prune the tree to maintain its shape. Be sure to remove any growth below the graft union, as it could interfere with the development of the grafted varieties.
Step 8: Monitoring
- Regular Check: Frequently check the graft union for signs of diseases or pests. This will help you address any issues promptly.
- Healing: The scion should start growing within a few weeks if the grafting is successful. Continue to monitor the graft until it becomes established.
Creating a duo apple tree is a gratifying experience that allows you to enjoy two different apple varieties on one tree, even in limited space. While grafting takes practice, patience, and attention to detail, the reward of harvesting multiple types of apples from one tree makes the effort worthwhile.