How to Graft Tomato Plants

Grafting is a horticultural technique that involves joining two different plant parts to create a single plant. It is commonly used to enhance the benefits of one plant and reduce the negative effects of the other. Grafting can be applied in various types of plants, including tomatoes. While grafting may seem daunting, it is a simple process that any gardener can learn. Here is how to graft tomato plants in a few easy steps.

Step 1: Choose Your Rootstock

The first step in grafting tomato plants is to choose your rootstock. The rootstock is the lower part of the graft and serves as the plant's foundation. The ideal rootstock should be vigorous, robust, and resistant to diseases and pest attacks. Some of the recommended rootstocks for tomatoes include Maxifort, Multifort, and He-Man. Choose a rootstock that is compatible with the desired scion and suits your growing area.

Step 2: Pick Your Scion

The second step is to pick your scion. The scion is the upper part of the graft and determines the fruit quality and characteristics. Tomatoes have numerous scion varieties, with each having unique features, such as color, flavor, and size. Choose a scion that meets your desired yield and taste. Some of the common scion varieties for tomatoes include Beefmaster, Better Boy, and Big Boy.

Step 3: Prepare Your Rootstock and Scion

The third step is to prepare your rootstock and scion by making a clean vertical cut. Use a sharp knife or razor blade to make the cuts. Ensure that the cuts are straight, smooth, and even across the diameter of the stem. Avoid crushing or tearing the stem tissues, as this can damage the plant cells and compromise the graft's success rate.

Step 4: Join the Rootstock and Scion

The fourth step is to join the rootstock and scion cuts. Place the two cuts together, ensuring that their cambial tissues match. Hold the cuts together firmly and whistle-tie them using a grafting clip or tape. The grafting clip or tape holds the cuts in place, prevents air pockets, and allows the plant cells to fuse together. Place the grafted plant in a ziplock bag or humidity chamber to reduce water loss and promote survival.

Step 5: Maintain the Grafted Tomato Plant

The final step in grafting tomato plants is to maintain the grafted plant. Remove the ziplock or humidity chamber after 1-2 weeks and gradually expose the plant to the environment. Water the plant regularly and ensure that it gets sufficient nutrients and light. Monitor the plant closely for signs of stress or disease and handle any problems accordingly.

In conclusion, grafting tomato plants is a useful technique for enhancing plant vigor and fruit quality. By following the above steps, you can graft your tomato plants and enjoy the benefits of a stronger and healthier plant. Happy grafting!