How to Make Grafted Tomato Plants

Grafting is a common practice in horticulture where the upper portion of one plant is attached to the roots of another plant. Grafted tomato plants are one of the most popular types of grafted plants. These plants are not only strong and vigorous but also have good resistance to soil-borne diseases. They also produce more fruits compared to non-grafted plants. Here's how you can make your own grafted tomato plants.

Step 1: Choose the Rootstock and Scion

The first step in making grafted tomato plants is to choose both the rootstock and the scion. The rootstock should be a strong tomato plant that has good resistance to soil-borne diseases such as Fusarium wilt and Verticillium wilt. The scion should be an heirloom or hybrid tomato variety that has desirable fruit characteristics such as taste, color, and shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Plants

To make the grafting process successful, the plants must be healthy and disease-free. Start by planting the rootstock and scion separately in seedling trays. When the plants have grown to a height of 8 to 10 centimeters, use a scissors or blade to cut off the upper portion of both the rootstock and scion. Cut the stem of each plant diagonally, making sure that each cut is roughly the same size.

Step 3: Join the Rootstock and Scion

The next step is to join the rootstock and scion. Take the cut stem of the scion plant and place it gently onto the cut stem of the rootstock plant. Make sure that the two stems are aligned before binding them together with grafting tape. Ensure that the grafting tape does not restrict growth and is not too tight as it can damage the plant. Repeat the process for all the plants you want to graft.

Step 4: Care for the Grafted Tomato Plants

Grafted tomato plants require special attention after the grafting process is complete. The first thing you should do is to keep the plants in a warm and humid environment for the first 7 to 10 days to allow them time to heal. Once you see new growth on the plants, you can transfer them to a more favorable location. Continue to care for the plants by providing water, nutrients, and proper spacing. Regularly prune the plants to improve airflow and prevent disease.

Conclusion

Grafting tomato plants can be a fun and rewarding experience for gardeners who want to grow healthy and vigorous plants. By following the steps above, you can make your own grafted tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes. Remember, the key to successful grafting is to choose the right plants, care for them properly, and be patient as they grow and develop.