Grafting

Winter is when we graft the trees. We usually go for copulation, also known as ‘English graft’ as our grafting method of choice. This approach is especially advisable when the rootstock and the scion more or less have the same thickness.

1. The scions and rootstocks are chamfered and split
2. The scions and rootstocks are jointed
3. The scions are clipped down to two to three eyes
4. The grafting calluses are tied together using a plastic ribbon with repeated overlaps to prevent the ingress of water
5. The buds are then dipped into grafting wax to prevent desiccation
6. The grafts are placed in crates and stored in the cooling room until it is planting season
7. The grafts are planted out in April or May (depending on the temperature)
8. After full inosculation (usually in June or July), the plastic ribbons are removed (ribbon made from biodegradable plastic will degrade by itself)

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