Creating your own dual apple tree requires a method called grafting, in which you attach a shoot or bud (scion) from one apple variety to the rootstock (the root system and lower trunk) of another. This process allows you to have two different apple varieties growing on the same tree. Here’s how to do it step by step:
fd13194wh
Step 1: Select the rootstock
Choose a healthy tree: Select a healthy, disease-free apple tree to use as rootstock. This tree will provide the root system for your duo apple tree.
Compatibility: Make sure the rootstock is compatible with the apple varieties you wish to graft.
Step 2: Choose the Scion wood
Selection: Choose healthy, disease-free, and well-developed scion wood (shoots or buds) from the apple varieties you wish to graft.
Collection Time: Collect scion wood in late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant and store it in a cool, humid place until grafting.
Step 3: Prepare the rootstock
Grafting Time: Graft when the rootstock comes out of dormancy, usually in early spring.
Cutting: Make a clean, slanted cut on the rootstock where you want to add the new variety.
Step 4: Prepare the scion
Cut: Make a corresponding oblique cut at the base of the scion.
Pruning: Cut the scion to only have 2-3 buds on it.
make a corresponding oblique cut
Step 5: Grafting
Joining: Join the cut surfaces of the scion and rootstock, making sure the cambium layers (the layer between the bark and the wood) of both are aligned.
Securing: Secure the graft union firmly with grafting tape or rubber bands to hold the graft in place.
Step 6: Healing and Protection
Waxing: Seal the graft point with grafting wax to prevent drying out and protect it from diseases and pests.
Support: Stake the scion to provide support while the graft union heals.
Protection: Protect the grafted tree from extreme weather conditions until the graft union has healed and the scion begins to grow.
Step 7: Caring for the Grafted Tree
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Pruning: Prune the tree to maintain its shape and remove any growth below the graft union.
Step 8: Monitoring
Regular monitoring: Check the graft union regularly for any signs of disease or pests.
Healing: Monitor the healing of the graft point. The scion should begin to grow within a few weeks if the graft is successful.
a crate of apples 1
Creating a dual apple tree through grafting can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It allows you to grow two different apple varieties on the same tree, maximizing the diversity of your harvest in a limited space. Keep in mind that successful grafting requires practice, patience, and precise execution, but the reward of enjoying two types of apples on the same tree is well worth it.