During the hot summer and autumn seasons, grafting fruit trees and seedlings requires careful attention to the collection, storage, and transportation of scions from improved varieties. Proper handling is crucial to maintain their viability and success rate. Here are the recommended methods for collecting and transporting scions:
1. **Optimal Collection Time and Selection**: Scions should be collected early in the morning when temperatures are cooler and humidity is higher. Choose healthy, thick shoots with full buds, preferably from the current season’s growth. After cutting, remove the upper leaf tips immediately, leaving a small portion of the petiole or the entire petiole. Bundle 30 to 50 scions together, securing them gently with ties to avoid damaging the petioles or bark. Try to bundle scions of similar length for consistency.
2. **Moisture Retention Packaging**: Wrap the bundled scions in one or two layers of damp cotton cloth. Place them carefully into a water-soaked pouch and then into a basket for transport. Avoid using plastic film as it can trap heat and cause damage. The goal is to keep the scions cool and moist throughout the journey.
3. **Transportation Care**: During transit, avoid exposing scions to direct sunlight or high temperatures. Regularly check the packaging and mist it with water if dryness is detected. For long trips, stop periodically to rinse the scions with clean water, place them in a shaded area, and cover them with wet cloth to prevent dehydration.
4. **Post-Transport Preparation**: Upon arrival, remove the scions from the packaging and rinse them thoroughly with fresh water 2–3 times. Soak them in a fungicide solution such as a 1000-fold dilution of carbendazim or thiophanate-methyl. Dry them slightly in a cool, well-ventilated area before storing them in clean river sand. Ensure the storage area is shaded, ventilated, and the sand remains consistently moist.
5. **Timely Grafting**: With proper handling, scions can remain viable for up to 7 days. It's best to graft as soon as possible after receiving them. When preparing for grafting, take a small number of scions at a time and place them in a bucket with 3–5 cm of cold water. Do not let the scions sit directly in the water; instead, cover them with a wet cloth or towel. Take only what you need for immediate use to maintain freshness.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve the survival and success of your grafting efforts during the warmer months. Always handle scions with care and stay attentive to environmental conditions to ensure the best results.
Yancheng Rongtai Labware Co.,Ltd , https://www.rongtailab.com