Grafting an orange and lemon tree is an excellent way to maximize yields while creating a combination of a sweet and sour taste. Grafting is a horticultural technique that combines two separate plants into one, in this case an orange and lemon tree. In order to achieve this combination, one should follow a few steps that are crucial for successful grafting.
First, one should carefully choose the rootstock. It is important to select a plant that is suitable for the soil and climatic conditions of where the plants will be grown. Secondly, the scion must be taken from the orange or lemon plant. The scion should be of a healthy, young and vigorous branch. Thirdly, the bark should be cut off the rootstock and scion to expose the cambium; the cambium layer is what is needed for the two plants to join.
Fourthly, the cambium layer of the rootstock and scion should be buttered. This is done by putting compound rootstock butter, usually wax-based, on the cambium layers of the two plants. This compound helps keep the plants in place and also protects them from fungi and bacteria. Fifthly, the rootstock and scion should then be tightly bound in plastic film or tape. This helps them to stay connected and form a single plant. Additionally, it also prevents the two plants from drying out.
Sixthly, the graft must be given adequate support. This is done by tying up the graft with twine or a wire to keep it firmly in place. Lastly, the tree should be given water and fertilizer so it can recover and grow. Once the tree has finished recovery, it can be harvested and enjoyed.
Requirements
Grafting a lemon and orange tree requires a few materials. The most important material is the rootstock and scion, which should be in good health and free from any diseases. It is also important to have the proper tools such as grafting knife and compound rootstock butter. Additionally, one should also have plastic film or tape, twine or a wire, and adequate support for the graft to use.
Pruning
It is important to prune orange and lemon trees in order to maintain their shape and help them produce healthy fruits. Pruning should also be done to keep the graft healthy and strong, as well as remove any unattractive or dead parts. Pruning helps prevent overcrowding and improving air circulation, which makes the graft more productive. Additionally, it can help promote vigorous growth and protect the graft from disease and pests.
Tips
When grafting an orange and lemon tree, it is important to take a few precautions. One should select the right rootstock and scion carefully, and ensure that they do not contain any diseases or pests. It is also essential to ensure that the cambium layers of the rootstock and scion are well-matched to each other. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the two plants are tightly and securely bound together before giving them adequate support.
A Final Touch
Once the graft is ready, it is important to give it a final touch. This includes giving the graft proper irrigation and fertilizer to help the tree recover and grow. In addition, one should make sure to check for any signs of disease or pests and react immediately to them. Finally, one should keep pruning the tree regularly to maintain its form and healthy production.
Temperature and Sunlight
Temperature and sunlight are also very important in ensuring that the graft is successful. The temperature should be ideal for the graft; too hot or too cold temperatures may cause the graft to not take hold properly. The tree should also receive adequate sunlight, preferably at least of six hours per day. This will ensure that the graft will grow strong and yield plenty of fruits.
The Right Time
When it comes to grafting an orange and lemon tree, timing is essential. It should be done during the dormant season, usually in the late winter. This is to ensure that the graft receives enough time to take hold and grow. Grafting during the active growth season can be risky, as it prevents the graft from settling properly. It is also important to time the pruning for the same period to ensure that the graft will be strong and healthy.
