Grafting techniques trial

June 2013 | AgFirst and DPI NSW | Future Orchards® trial report

Reworking established apple blocks by grafting can provide a lower-cost pathway to variety change than complete orchard removal and replanting. This Future Orchards® trial demonstrates two common grafting techniques and their practical advantages and disadvantages.

The trial was established on mature Pink Lady® trees on M26 rootstock at Muralappi Orchard. It compared notch or step grafting with crown-bark grafting. Treatments also included different graft-securing methods, with grafts either stapled or wrapped with grafting tape, and wounds sealed after grafting.

The report is useful because it treats grafting as a field operation rather than a theoretical propagation technique. Success depends on timing, scion handling, preparation of the stock, secure contact between cambial tissues and follow-up management of regrowth and competing shoots.

For growers considering rapid variety conversion, the resource provides a practical reference for planning reworking demonstrations and judging the labour, skill and risk involved.