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 essential to maintain the viability and quality of the scions. Here are the best practices for this process:
1. **Scion Collection**: Scions should be collected during early morning hours when temperatures are cooler and humidity is higher. Choose healthy, thick shoots with well-developed buds. Avoid young, tender parts; instead, leave a portion of the petiole or stem. Bundle 30–50 scions together, ensuring the bundles are tied gently to avoid damaging the delicate bark or petioles. Try to keep the length of each bundle consistent for easier handling.
2. **Moisture Retention Packaging**: After bundling, wrap the scions in one or two layers of damp cotton cloth. Place them into a plastic bag filled with fresh water, then transfer them into a basket for transport. Avoid using plastic film, as it can trap heat and cause moisture loss.
3. **Transportation Care**: During transit, protect the scions from high temperatures and direct sunlight. Regularly check the packaging and mist it with water if dryness is detected. For long-distance transport, stop periodically, rinse the scions with clean water, and store them in a shaded, cool area covered with wet cloth to prevent dehydration.
4. **Post-Delivery Preparation**: Upon arrival, immediately remove the scions from their packaging and rinse them with clean water 2–3 times. Soak them in a fungicide solution such as 1000-fold diluted carbendazim or thiophanate-methyl for a few minutes. Dry them slightly in a cool place before placing them in clean, moist river sand. Store the scions in a shaded, well-ventilated area, keeping the sand consistently moist but not waterlogged.
5. **Timely Grafting**: With proper care, 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, place a small number of scions in a bucket with 3–5 cm of cold water, ensuring they do not touch the water directly. Cover them with a wet cloth or towel to maintain moisture. Only take what you need for immediate use to avoid unnecessary exposure.
By following these steps, growers can significantly increase the success rate of grafting, ensuring that the scions remain healthy and ready for use. Always handle scions with care and monitor conditions closely throughout the entire process.
Yancheng Rongtai Labware Co.,Ltd , https://www.rongtailab.com