Different trees have different features. It is these features that made you choose to plant the trees that are currently growing on your property. However, did you know it is possible to infuse your trees with the characteristics, structure, and fruits of another tree?
You can do so through grafting. Newly grafted trees can develop quicker, produce more fruits, and even become disease-resistant.
What is tree grafting, and how does it work? This article will look at tree grafting and tell you how hiring a professional tree service in West Palm Beach can help you create the perfect tree.
What Is Tree Grafting?
Think of tree grafting as your tree’s version of an organ transplant. The process involves attaching a budding branch from one tree onto the trunk of another. By doing so, you can have one tree “lend” its characteristics to another.
Why Graft Trees?
Besides, “What is tree grafting?” another question most tree owners have is, “Why graft trees?” What many might not know is that tree grafting helps with many needs. For instance, tree grafting is an excellent option if:
- You want to make your trees more resistant to pests and diseases
- Your trees aren’t a perfect fit for West Palm Beach’s climate
- You want to enhance your trees’ aesthetics
However, one of the main reasons for grafting trees is to accelerate the fruit production process. Fruiting trees take between five and 10 years to bear fruit. Few people have that much patience. If you’re not one of them, you have the benefit of tree grafting.
How Does Tree Grafting Work?
You can graft your trees using various techniques. The grafting method you pick will depend on what you intend to accomplish. It will also depend on your tree’s age. For instance, grafting a tree’s root system is only meant for young or small trees.
Here are some of the common techniques professional arborists use to graft trees.
Bud Grafting
This type of graft involves making a T-shaped cut on your tree’s bark. Afterward, the arborist will peel back the bark and place the budding branch inside. Once in place, they’ll tie or tape the bark and let the tree heal.
Whip Grafting
Whip grafting allows one to attach branches from different trees together to create one branch. Simply cut the branches at the same angle to ensure they are a perfect fit. You’ll then need to use grafting tape to secure the attached area.
Veneer Grafting
When it comes to veneer grafting, the arborist will cut a flap on the bark. This cut will create a small pocket where they’ll insert the budding branch. Similar to other techniques, the arborist will wrap the branch in place.
Bark Inlay Grafting
Sometimes, the bark might be too big for techniques like whip grafting. That is where bark inlay grafting comes in handy.
In this grafting technique, your arborist will cut off a branch and create three small notches. Afterward, they will attach three smaller branches inside those notches. The arborist will then nail the budding branches and seal everything with grafting wax.
Professional Tree Service in West Palm Beach, FL
At times, grafting your trees will be as easy as attaching one branch to another. However, most times, it will require a level of expertise that only trained arborists possess.
Are you interested in finding out, “What is tree grafting, and can it help my trees?” Reach out to ECO Tree Experts today for professional tree service. From grafting your trees to offering quality tree trimmings, there’s only one place to turn.
Call ECO Tree Experts at 833-321-TREE for your free estimate.