How to Graft Eggplant and Tomato Plants Together

Grafting is a technique used to combine desirable traits from different plants into a single plant. By grafting eggplant and tomato plants together, you can create a plant that produces both delicious fruits. Here's how to do it:

Step 1. Choose the Right Plants

First, you need to choose the right eggplant and tomato plants to graft. You should start by picking two healthy plants of the same size with stems that are similar in diameter.

Step 2. Prepare Your Plants

Next, you need to prepare your plants for grafting. You will need a sharp knife and grafting tape. Begin by cutting off the rootstock plant's top, leaving only the stem. Then, make a diagonal cut at a 45-degree angle about 1.5 inches above the rootstock's stem. This will create a "V" shape in the rootstock stem.

Repeat the same process with the scion plant, making a diagonal cut at a 45-degree angle about 1.5 inches below the plant's first true leaves, creating a "V" shape in the scion stem. The scion is the plant that you want to keep the top part of. Then, fit the two cuts together, so the two "V" shapes mesh, and wrap the area with grafting tape.

Step 3. Care for Your Grafted Plant

After you have successfully grafted your eggplant and tomato plants together, you need to care for them properly. Keep the grafted plant in a warm, humid environment with plenty of sunlight. Water your plant regularly, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. You should also fertilize your plant regularly, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can harm the plant.

Step 4. Monitor Your Grafted Plant's Progress

It's essential to monitor your grafted plant's progress after you have successfully grafted your eggplant and tomato plants together. Look for signs of graft success such as new growth and healthy leaves. You should also watch for signs of stress, such as yellowed or wilted leaves, which could indicate that your plant is not doing well.

Step 5. Harvest Your Grafted Plant's Fruits

Once your grafted plant starts to produce fruits, you can harvest them just like you would with regular eggplant and tomato plants. Remember to remove any damaged, diseased, or rotting fruits and dispose of them properly.

Conclusion

Grafting eggplant and tomato plants together can be an exciting way to create a plant that produces two different fruits. While it may take time and effort to do it correctly, the end result is worth it. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking care of your grafted plant, you can enjoy delicious and healthy fruits for years to come.