How to Plant Saplings from Existing Trees

Planting saplings from existing trees is an excellent way to replicate the growth of your favorite fruit or ornamental tree. This process is called grafting, and it involves taking a small cutting from an existing tree and attaching it to a newly planted sapling. With a little effort and the right tools, you can easily plant your own saplings and watch them grow into full-sized trees.

What you will need

To get started with grafting, you will need a few key tools:

A sharp knife or pruning shears

A grafting knife

A small brush (optional)

Grafting wax or tape

Saplings (one to serve as the rootstock and at least one to serve as the scion)

A pencil or other similar object

Before getting started, you should make sure that you have all of the necessary tools on hand, as well as a clean and organized workspace.

Choosing Your Sapling

The first step in grafting is to choose the sapling that you want to plant. This sapling will serve as the rootstock, which will provide the foundation for your newly planted tree. Look for a sapling that is tall and sturdy, with plenty of branches and leaves. You should also look for a sapling with a healthy root system. If possible, choose a sapling that is similar in age and type to the tree that you are trying to replicate.

Preparing the Scion

The second step is to prepare the scion, which is the cutting that you will attach to the rootstock. Carefully select a healthy branch from the existing tree and make a clean cut at a 45-degree angle. Make sure that the cut is neat and even, and that there are no jagged edges or splinters. Additionally, you should try to choose a branch that is not too thick or too thin, as this will make it easier to graft.

Attaching the Scion to the Rootstock

The next step is to attach the scion to the rootstock. Using your grafting knife, carefully make a small cut in the rootstock, being careful not to damage the sapling. Take your scion and make a matching cut on the bottom side of the branch. Fit the cut edges of the scion and the rootstock together, making sure that they fit snugly. Use your grafting wax or tape to wrap the joint tightly, sealing it off from the environment.

Caring for the Newly Planted Sapling

After you have attached the scion to the rootstock, it is critical to take proper care of the newly planted sapling. First, make sure that the newly planted sapling is securely staked, as this will prevent it from falling over in the wind. Additionally, you should avoid pruning the graft for the first year, as this will give it ample time to grow and establish itself in the soil. And finally, water the sapling regularly, being careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Conclusion

Grafting saplings from existing trees is an easy and straightforward process that can result in beautiful and healthy trees. With a little bit of planning and patience, you can grow your favorite fruit or ornamental tree right in your own backyard.