How is grafting done on a mango plant?

 

How is grafting done on a mango plant?

Grafting is a common technique used in horticulture to propagate plants with desirable traits. It involves joining a scion (the desired plant variety) with a rootstock (the root system of another plant). The process of grafting on a mango plant typically follows these steps:

1. Selecting the scion:mango tree

 Choose a healthy and disease-free branch from a mango tree that produces the desired fruit. The scion should have a diameter similar to that of the rootstock.

2. Preparing the scion:

 Take a sharp grafting knife and make a clean, slanting cut on the scion. The cut should be about 2 to 3 inches long and have a slope of approximately 30 degrees. Remove any excess leaves from the scion, leaving only a few at the top.

3. Preparing the rootstock:

 Choose a young, vigorous mango plant to serve as the rootstock. Make a vertical, upward-pointing cut on the stem of the rootstock. The cut should be slightly longer than the scion and should intersect the wood.

4. Joining the scion and rootstock:

 Place the cut surface of the scion firmly against the cut surface of the rootstock, ensuring that the cambium layers of both align. The cambium is the thin green layer just beneath the bark responsible for growth. The two cut surfaces should fit together snugly.

5. Securing the graft

: Wrap the joint tightly with grafting tape or a grafting clip to hold the scion and rootstock together. Make sure the wrap is firm but not too tight, allowing some room for growth. This step helps protect the graft and maintain moisture.

6. Providing support: 

To provide stability and support for the newly grafted plant, insert a stake next to the graft site and tie it securely using a soft plant tie or grafting tape. This helps prevent any movement or damage to the graft during the healing process.

7. Creating a favorable environment: 

After grafting, it is important to create a suitable environment for the graft to heal and grow. Place the grafted plant in a warm, well-lit area but away from direct sunlight. Maintain high humidity levels by covering the graft with a clear plastic bag or using a misting system.

8. Monitoring and care: 

Regularly monitor the grafted mango plant for signs of growth and ensure that the graft remains secure. Over time, the scion and rootstock will fuse together, and new growth will emerge from the scion. Once the graft has successfully taken and the plant is well-established, gradually expose it to normal growing conditions.

It's worth noting that grafting can be a complex process and may require some experience and skill. If you are new to grafting, it is advisable to seek guidance from a local horticulturist or expert to ensure successful results.