How High to Plant Graft Line Apple Tree

Planting an apple tree requires careful consideration of various factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and spacing between other trees. However, one of the most important factors to take into account is the height at which to plant the graft line of the apple tree. Grafting is a method of joining a scion - the part of the tree that produces fruit - with a rootstock that provides the tree with the necessary nutrients to grow. In this article, we will discuss how to determine the ideal height to plant the graft line of an apple tree.

What is a Graft Line?

The graft line is the point where the scion is joined to the rootstock. It is a visible and often noticeable knot or bump on the trunk of the apple tree. The aim of grafting is to produce a tree that combines the best characteristics of the scion and rootstock. By growing the scion on a selected rootstock, the tree will have a better chance of producing fruit that is superior in quality, disease-resistant and hardy, compared to the parent scion or rootstock.

Measuring the Ideal Height for Planting the Graft Line

When planting an apple tree, ensure that the graft line is at least 1 or 2 inches above the soil line. Planting too shallow will expose the rootstock to air and cause damage, and planting too deep will bury the graft line and hinder fruit production. One way to measure the ideal height is to locate the graft line and choose the nearest soil line to it. Measure the distance between the graft line to the nearest soil line and add 1 to 2 inches to the measurement. This will give the height at which to plant the apple tree.

Why Planting the Graft Line Correctly is Important

Planting the apple tree at the right height is crucial for the tree's growth and development. If not planted correctly, the tree may not be able to produce fruit or may succumb to diseases caused by soil-borne pathogens. Planting the graft line too deep will result in the scion being below the soil surface, which can cause roots to grow from the scion, resulting in a tree with two root systems, which can reduce fruit production. Moreover, the tree will not be able to develop strong support if planted too deep, making it vulnerable to strong winds and unstable soil conditions.

Conclusion

Planting an apple tree at the correct height is vital for the tree's health, productivity, and longevity. The ideal height to plant the graft line of an apple tree is at least 1 to 2 inches above the soil line. This ensures the tree can develop strong roots, remain disease-free and produce fruit of excellent quality. Measure the height from the graft line to the nearest soil line and add 1 to 2 inches to the measurement to find the ideal height at which to plant your apple tree. With proper care, your apple tree will reward you with delicious and nutritious fruit for years to come.