Inoculation of cherry plum into a split: how and why it is done
Known for its resistance to diseases, pests and weather conditions, cherry plum is widely used by gardeners for grafting on plums. This method not only saves space and grows two different types of fruit on the same tree, but also significantly increases yields, as well as improves overall characteristics.
So, often, instead of the large-fruited plum promised by the seller, an unavailable tree with small fruits grows, which, moreover, can also hurt. It's a pity to dig him up, and why? If you plant cherry plum on the remaining healthy branches of plums, next year you can enjoy delicious fruits, and in a few seasons a bountiful harvest will be provided.
It is best to vaccinate in early spring, before budding on the trees. You can plant several varieties of cherry plum on one plum at once, which will increase the yield.
Selection and preparation of stock
Choose young for the stock plum at the age of 4-5 years with a trunk thickness of at least 4 cm. It is worth considering that the older the rootstock is, the harder the graft will take root.
Find a healthy, undamaged branch on the tree and remove more than half of the young shoot with a sharp pruner or saw. Clean the cut edges with a clerical knife. Make a deep longitudinal cut (up to 5 cm) in the middle of the stripped hemp. The stock is ready.
Scion selection and preparation
On the sunny side of the outside of the crown cherry plums, from its middle layer, select and cut out a healthy annual shoot. It should have matured wood.
Cut off the top and prepare a stalk 15 cm long. Cut the bottom of the stalk with a knife on both sides to form a wedge.
For cutting, it is better to use the middle part of the shoot.
How to properly plant cherry plum in a cleft?
Now you can start directly with the vaccination:
- Insert the scion wedge tightly into the split (longitudinal cut) on the drain.
- Close up the edges of the grafting site with garden varnish.
- Wrap the graft tightly with garden varnish.
- Put a cellophane bag on the grafted stalk, pulling off its ends with electrical tape under the graft. It will protect you from the bright sun and retain moisture.
So that moisture does not evaporate from the cut at the top of the cherry-plum-scion, it must also be covered with garden var.
When the grafted twig takes root, the bag must be removed. Confirmation that the vaccination was successful will be the buds that have hatched on the scion.