How to Graft a Tomato Plant to Rootstock

Grafting tomato plants to rootstock is a technique that allows gardeners to grow healthier and more productive plants. Rootstocks are chosen for their disease resistance and vigor, while scion varieties are chosen for their desirable fruit characteristics. Grafting combines the strengths of both the rootstock and scion, resulting in a stronger and more resilient plant. Here's how to graft a tomato plant to rootstock:

Choose Rootstock and Scion Varieties

The first step in grafting a tomato plant is to choose your rootstock and scion varieties. Rootstock varieties are generally chosen for their resistance to soil-borne diseases, root-knot nematodes, and other pests. Popular choices include Maxifort, Multifort, and RST-04-106-T. Scion varieties are chosen for their desirable fruit characteristics, such as flavor, texture, and color. Some popular scion varieties include Brandywine, Cherokee Purple, and San Marzano.

Prepare the Rootstock and Scion

Before grafting, you'll need to prepare your rootstock and scion. The rootstock should be grown separately from the scion, and both should be about the same thickness. Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make a diagonal cut across the stem of both the rootstock and scion. The cuts should be about 1 inch long and at a 45-degree angle.

Join the Rootstock and Scion

Once the rootstock and scion are prepared, it's time to join them together. Hold the rootstock and scion together with the cut sides touching. Use a grafting clip to secure the two together, making sure the cuts are aligned. You can also use a grafting wax or parafilm to cover the graft and protect it from infection.

Care for the Grafted Plant

After grafting, it's important to care for the grafted plant to ensure its success. Keep the plant in a warm and humid environment, such as a greenhouse or under a humidity dome. Water the plant regularly and monitor it for signs of stress or infection.

Once the plant has started to grow, you can remove the grafting clip or cover. Be careful not to damage the graft as you remove the clip or cover. As the plant grows, continue to monitor it for signs of stress or disease. Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.

In Conclusion

Grafting a tomato plant to rootstock is a great way to grow healthier and more productive plants. By choosing the right rootstock and scion varieties and following the proper grafting techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes. With a little care and attention, your grafted tomato plant will thrive and provide you with fresh, flavorful tomatoes throughout the growing season.