One of the most beautiful flowering plants, roses are also the most widely planted. A large, diverse group of plants with hundreds of species and cultivars, roses come in a seemingly endless array of shapes, colors, and sizes. While many gardeners are happy to grow the most common varieties, the true aficionado is always looking for new and different roses to add to their collection. Grafting is one way to increase your rose collection without having to buy new plants. A relatively simple process, grafting can be used to create new plants that have the desired characteristics of two different roses.
Grafting is the process of joining two pieces of plant tissue together so that they will grow as one plant. In the case of roses, the rootstock is the lower part of the plant that provides the roots and the vascular system. The scion is the upper part of the plant that contains the desired flower color, shape, or other characteristics. When the two pieces of tissue are joined together, the vascular systems of the two plants will connect, allowing water and nutrients to flow from the rootstock to the scion. The scion will then continue to grow and produce flowers as if it were growing on its own roots.
There are many different methods of grafting roses, but the most common is the cleft graft. To perform a cleft graft, you will need a sharp knife, a grafting tool, and a piece of rootstock that is about the same diameter as the scion. First, make a clean, sloping cut on the rootstock. Then, make a small split in the center of the cut. Next, make a matching cut on the scion, and insert it into the split in the rootstock. Finally, secure the graft union with a grafting tool or tape. The graft union should be kept moist and protected from the elements until the two pieces of tissue have healed together. Once the graft has healed, the new rose plant can be planted in the garden.
The Art of Rose Grafting
Rose grafting, also known as budding, is a horticultural technique used to propagate new rose plants by combining tissues from two different rose plants. The process involves creating a union between a rootstock and a scion, allowing the scion to grow on the rootstock and produce new shoots. Rose grafting offers several benefits, including:
- Improved disease resistance: Rootstocks can be selected for their resistance to diseases, ensuring that the grafted rose plant is also resistant.
- Adaptation to specific growing conditions: Rootstocks can be chosen based on their compatibility with different soil types, climates, and environmental conditions.
- Increased vigor and productivity: Some rootstocks promote stronger growth and better flowering performance in the grafted rose plant.
- Creation of new varieties: Grafting allows hybridizers to combine desirable traits from different rose varieties, resulting in new and unique cultivars.
- Rejuvenation of old rose plants: Old rose plants can be revitalized by grafting new scions onto their rootstock.
Rose grafting is a relatively complex process that requires careful preparation and execution. The success of a rose graft depends on several factors, including the compatibility of the rootstock and scion, the proper timing of the grafting procedure, and the aftercare provided to the grafted plant.
Selecting the Right Grafting Stock
Selecting the appropriate rootstock to graft your rose plant with depends on the desired results and environmental conditions. The rootstock determines the plant’s size, cold hardiness, disease resistance, and salt tolerance.
When choosing a grafting stock, consider the following factors:
Size Control Rootstocks
| Rootstock | Size Effect on Grafted Plant |
|---|---|
| Rosa canina Inermis | Dwarfing; ideal for small gardens or containers |
| Rosa multiflora | Semidwarfing; produces moderate-sized plants |
| Rosa rugosa | Vigorous; creates large, sprawling plants |
Cold Hardiness Rootstocks
| Rootstock | Cold Hardiness |
|---|---|
| Rosa laxa | Zone 2-3 |
| Rosa rugosa | Zone 2-4 |
| Rosa canina | Zone 4-5 |
Disease Resistance Rootstocks
| Rootstock | Resistance |
|---|---|
| Rosa laxa | Crown gall, powdery mildew |
| Rosa multiflora | Crown gall, black spot |
| Rosa rugosa | Downy mildew, black spot |
Preparing the Rootstock and Scion
Selecting the Rootstock
Choosing the right rootstock is crucial for the success of the graft. Consider the following factors:
- Disease resistance: Select rootstocks resistant to common rose diseases, such as black spot and powdery mildew.
- Root system: Vigorous rootstocks with well-developed taproots provide stability and nutrient uptake.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the chosen rootstock is compatible with the scion variety. Incompatible rootstocks can lead to poor growth or graft failure.
Preparing the Rootstock
1. Clean and cut the rootstock stem cleanly at the desired height (typically 6-8 inches above the soil line).
2. Remove any thorns or side shoots from the stem.
3. Create a wedge-shaped cut on the stem using a sharp knife. The wedge should be approximately 3 inches long and 1/4 inch deep.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Clean and cut the rootstock stem. |
| 2 | Remove thorns and side shoots. |
| 3 | Create a wedge-shaped cut on the stem. |
The Cleft Grafting Technique
The cleft grafting technique, a popular method in agriculture, consists of inserting a scion (the part to be grafted) into a cleft cut made on the rootstock (the base plant). Commonly used in grafting roses, this technique involves precise cuts to ensure successful fusion and plant growth.
Materials Required:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Sharp grafting knife | For making clean cuts |
| Grafting wax | To seal the graft union |
| Rubber bands or grafting tape | To hold the graft in place |
Steps:
1. Prepare the Rootstock:
– Cut the rootstock stem at a 90-degree angle, creating a flat surface.
– Split the stem down the center for a depth of about 2-3 inches using a grafting knife.
2. Prepare the Scion:
– Select a healthy scion from the desired rose variety.
– Cut a wedge-shaped piece from the base of the scion, matching the width and length of the cleft in the rootstock.
3. Insert the Scion:
– Gently insert the wedge-shaped scion into the cleft in the rootstock, ensuring that the cambium layers of both plants align.
4. Seal and Support the Graft:
– Apply a thin layer of grafting wax over the graft union to seal it and prevent moisture loss.
– Secure the graft with rubber bands or grafting tape to hold it firmly in place.
The Whip and Tongue Grafting Method
The whip and tongue method is a popular grafting technique that is relatively easy to perform and successful. It is often used for grafting roses, as well as other types of plants. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do whip and tongue grafting on a rose plant:
1. Select the Rootstock and Scion
The first step is to select the rootstock and the scion. The rootstock is the plant that will provide the root system for the grafted plant, and the scion is the plant that will provide the top growth.
2. Prepare the Rootstock and Scion
Once you have selected the rootstock and scion, you need to prepare them for grafting.
- Using a sharp knife, make a diagonal cut on the rootstock and the scion. The cuts should be about 2-3 inches long and should be angled at about 45 degrees.
- On the rootstock, make a tongue by making a vertical cut in the center of the diagonal cut, about 1 inch long.
- On the scion, make a whip by making a diagonal cut on one side of the diagonal cut, about 1 inch long.
- Insert the whip of the scion into the tongue of the rootstock.
- Align the cambium layers of the rootstock and scion. The cambium layer is the green layer of tissue just beneath the bark.
- Wrap the graft union with grafting tape or other suitable material to hold it in place.
- Keep the grafted plant in a warm, humid environment for the first few weeks.
- Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering.
- Do not fertilize the plant until it has started to grow new roots.
- The graft union is the weakest part of the plant, so you should avoid putting any stress on it.
- The grafted plant may be more susceptible to pests and diseases than a non-grafted plant, so you should take steps to protect it.
- The grafted plant may not produce flowers for a year or two after it is grafted.
- Clean and Prepare the Grafting Tape: Before wrapping the graft, ensure the grafting tape is clean and free from any dirt or debris. You can use a clean cloth or brush to wipe it gently.
- Wrap the Graft: Begin wrapping the graft at the bottom, starting below the graft union. Wrap the tape tightly around the union, ensuring it covers the entire area. Overlap the tape slightly with each turn to provide secure coverage.
- Provide Reinforcement: Once the graft is wrapped, reinforce the area with a thicker piece of grafting tape or an elastic band. This additional layer will hold the graft firmly in place during the healing process.
- Seal the Cut Surface: Apply a sealant or grafting wax to the cut surface of the rootstock. This will prevent moisture loss and protect the graft from infection.
- Cover the Graft: To provide further protection, place a plastic bag or clear container over the graft. This will create a humid environment that promotes healing.
- Monitor the Graft: Observe the graft regularly to check for any signs of rejection or infection. If any problems arise, remove the wrapping and treat the wound accordingly.
- Rose plant with a strong rootstock
- Scion wood from the desired rose variety
- Grafting knife or razor blade
- Grafting tape or wax
- Alcohol wipes
- Prepare the rootstock:
- Cut a clean, straight cut on the main stem of the rootstock, approximately 2-3 inches above the ground.
- Make a second cut, about 1-1 1/2 inches long, about 45 degrees above the first cut.
- Prepare the scion wood:
- Cut a piece of scion wood from the desired rose variety, about 4-6 inches long.
- Make a clean, straight cut at the bottom of the scion wood, about 1-1 1/2 inches long, about 45 degrees above the base.
- Fit the scion wood onto the rootstock:
- Align the scion wood with the rootstock, so that the cambium layer (the green layer under the bark) of both cuts match up.
- Secure the scion wood to the rootstock using grafting tape or wax.
- Care for the grafted plant:
- Keep the grafted area moist and out of direct sunlight for several weeks.
- Check the graft union regularly for signs of infection and adjust the grafting tape or wax as needed.
- Remove any suckers that may grow from the rootstock below the graft union.
3. Join the Rootstock and Scion
Once the rootstock and scion are prepared, you need to join them together.
4. Care for the Grafted Plant
After you have grafted the plant, you need to care for it properly to ensure that it is successful.
5. Aftercare
Once the grafted plant has started to grow new roots, you can begin to care for it like a normal plant. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Wrapping and Securing the Graft
Once the graft union is properly aligned and held in place, it is essential to wrap and secure it to promote successful healing. Follow these steps to wrap and secure the graft:
The type of grafting tape or sealant used will depend on the specific rose variety and the grafting method employed. Refer to the specific instructions provided for your particular grafting technique.
Aftercare for Grafted Rose Plants
Maintain Adequate Moisture
Water the grafted area regularly, maintaining consistent moisture levels. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Protect from Elements
Cover the grafted area with a plastic bag or shade cloth to protect it from direct sunlight, wind, and cold temperatures.
Remove Suckers
Regularly inspect for and remove any suckers (shoots growing from the rootstock). These suckers will compete with the grafted scion for nutrients and weaken the graft union.
Monitor for Signs of Disease
Keep an eye out for any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves, black spots, or powdery mildew. Treat affected plants promptly to prevent further spread.
Fertilize Appropriately
Fertilize the grafted rose plant regularly with a balanced fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prune Sparingly
Prune the grafted rose plant sparingly, and avoid cutting back into the graft union. If necessary, prune to remove dead or diseased branches and encourage healthy growth.
Additional Care Tips
| Task | Frequency | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect graft union | Weekly | Ensures the graft is healing properly |
| Remove debris | As needed | Prevents disease and encourages airflow |
| Mulch around base | Annually | Protects roots from temperature fluctuations and moisture loss |
Troubleshooting Grafting Issues
8. Graft Union Not Healing
– Ensure proper alignment and contact between the scion and rootstock.
– Choose compatible varieties for grafting.
– Use sharp, clean tools to make precise cuts.
– Provide sufficient moisture and humidity to the graft union.
– Remove any debris or excess growth around the union.
– Consider using a grafting sealant or tape to protect the union.
– Check for any pathogens or pests that may be affecting the healing process.
– Provide adequate temperature and light conditions for the grafting process.
– Graft during the optimal time of year for your specific rose variety and climate.
– Consider the maturity and health of both the scion and rootstock.
– Ensure the rootstock is vigorously growing and well-established before grafting.
– Check the compatibility of the rootstock and scion varieties for successful grafting.
Advanced Grafting Techniques
Chip Bud Grafting
Chip bud grafting is a technique that is commonly used for grafting roses. It involves making a T-shaped cut on the rootstock and inserting a chip of bark from the scion into the cut. The chip should contain a bud, and the cambium layers of the rootstock and scion should be aligned. The graft is then tied securely and waxed to prevent drying out.
Whip and Tongue Grafting
Whip and tongue grafting is another popular technique for grafting roses. It involves making a sloping cut on both the rootstock and the scion, and then cutting a tongue into each cut. The tongues are then interlocked and the graft is tied securely and waxed.
Saddle Grafting
Saddle grafting is a technique that is often used for grafting large-diameter rootstocks. It involves making a V-shaped cut on the rootstock and a corresponding V-shaped cut on the scion. The scion is then inserted into the rootstock and the graft is tied securely and waxed.
Bridge Grafting
Bridge grafting is a technique that is used to repair damaged or diseased bark on a tree. It involves making two T-shaped cuts above and below the damaged area and inserting a bridge of bark from a healthy tree into the cuts. The bridge should contain cambium layers, and the grafts are then tied securely and waxed.
Inarching
Inarching is a technique that is used to graft two trees that are growing close together. It involves making a cut on each tree and interlocking the cuts. The trees are then tied together and the graft is waxed.
Topworking
Topworking is a technique that is used to change the variety of a tree. It involves grafting a new scion onto the existing rootstock. The scion should contain buds of the desired variety, and the graft is then tied securely and waxed.
Veneer Grafting
Veneer grafting is a technique that is used for grafting thin-barked trees. It involves making a thin cut on the rootstock and a corresponding cut on the scion. The scion is then inserted into the cut and the graft is tied securely and waxed.
Cleft Grafting
Cleft grafting is a technique that is used for grafting thick-barked trees. It involves making a cleft in the rootstock and inserting a wedge-shaped scion into the cleft. The graft is then tied securely and waxed.
Crown Grafting
Crown grafting is a technique that is used for grafting trees that have been cut off at the base. It involves cutting the rootstock off at the ground level and inserting a scion into a cleft in the rootstock. The graft is then tied securely and waxed.
Practical Applications of Rose Grafting
1. Rootstock Selection
Choosing the right rootstock is crucial for rose grafting. Consider the desired characteristics, such as disease resistance, cold hardiness, and vigor. Common rootstocks include Dr. Huey, Multiflora, and Fortuniana.
2. Scion Selection
The scion is the desired variety of rose you want to graft. Ensure it is healthy and free of diseases. Choose a strong, straight stem with several nodes.
3. Grafting Method
There are various grafting methods, including T-budding, whip-and-tongue, and cleft grafting. Select the method best suited for your specific needs.
4. Preparation
Prepare the rootstock and scion by making clean cuts using a sharp knife. For T-budding, make a T-shaped incision on the rootstock. For whip-and-tongue grafting, cut diagonal slits on both the rootstock and scion.
5. Grafting
Insert the scion into the prepared rootstock, ensuring the cambium layers align. Secure the graft with grafting tape or wax.
6. Aftercare
Place the grafted rose in a warm, humid environment to encourage callus formation. Keep it out of direct sunlight and water it regularly.
7. Monitoring
Monitor the graft site regularly for signs of success, such as new growth emerging from the scion. Remove any suckers that may develop from the rootstock.
8. Pruning
After the graft has successfully taken, begin pruning to shape the rose plant as desired. Remove any weak or crossing branches.
9. Harvesting
Once the grafted rose has established, you can harvest blooms as you would with any other rose plant. Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of your new grafted rose.
10. Troubleshooting
If the graft fails, consider the following potential causes:
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Incompatibility between rootstock and scion | Use a different rootstock or scion |
| Improper grafting technique | Practice and perfect the grafting method |
| Infection or pests | Apply appropriate treatments |
| Poor environmental conditions | Adjust temperature, humidity, and sunlight levels |
| Insufficient watering | Water regularly and consistently |
How to Graft a Rose Plant: A Step-by-Step Guide
Grafting roses is a technique that allows you to combine two different rose varieties onto a single plant. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to create a more compact plant, to improve the plant’s resistance to pests and diseases, or to create a new and unique variety of rose.
Materials:
Instructions:
People Also Ask
How long does it take for a rose graft to heal?
It typically takes 2-4 weeks for a rose graft to heal and the scion wood to begin to grow.
What is the best time to graft roses?
The best time to graft roses is during the spring, when the plants are actively growing.
Can I graft different types of roses together?
Yes, you can graft different types of roses together. However, it is important to use compatible rootstocks and scion wood. For example, you can graft a hybrid tea rose onto a multiflora rootstock.
