Veredeln, okulieren von Obstbäumen zeigt der Gärtner

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of grafting fruit trees using the technique of budding, also known as okulieren. This method is simple and can be mastered with some practice, making it an accessible skill for gardening enthusiasts. By following these steps, you'll be able to propagate your own fruit trees effectively.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before starting the grafting process, ensure you have the following supplies ready:

• Grafting knife or a sharp pruning knife
• Budding strips (Okulette) - size recommended: 35 x 32 x 0.40 mm
• Grafting tape or binding tape - size recommended: 140 x 3.5 mm
• Healthy rootstock (the tree you will graft onto)
• Scion wood (the bud or branch you want to propagate)

Practical Tips

• Select a healthy rootstock that is compatible with your chosen scion.
• Ensure all tools are clean and sharp to avoid infections.

Step 2: Prepare the Scion Wood

• Choose a healthy bud from the scion wood.
• Make a horizontal cut about 1-2 inches long on the scion wood, just below the bud.
• Make a vertical cut to create a flap that will allow the bud to be inserted later.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not use buds that show signs of disease or damage.
• Make sure the cuts are clean to promote better healing.

Step 3: Prepare the Rootstock

• Select a location on the rootstock where you want to graft the bud.
• Make a T-shaped incision in the bark of the rootstock, ensuring you cut through the bark but not too deeply into the wood.

Practical Tips

• The T-shaped cut should be roughly the same size as the flap of the bud you prepared earlier.

Step 4: Insert the Bud

• Carefully lift the flap created on the rootstock.
• Insert the prepared bud into the T-cut, ensuring the cambium layers of both the bud and rootstock are aligned.
• Press the flap back down to secure the bud in place.

Important Note

• The cambium layer is the green layer just beneath the bark, crucial for successful grafting.

Step 5: Secure the Bud

• Use the grafting tape or binding tape to wrap around the graft site.
• Start from the bottom and work your way up, ensuring the bud is tightly secured but not constricted.

Practical Tips

• Ensure the bud is exposed at the top of the tape so it can grow after grafting.

Step 6: Care for the Grafted Tree

• Place the grafted tree in a sheltered area to protect it from extreme weather.
• Water the rootstock regularly but do not overwater.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid disturbing the graft site as it heals.
• Monitor for any signs of infection or disease.

Conclusion

Grafting fruit trees through budding is a straightforward technique that yields rewarding results with a little practice. By following these steps, you can expand your garden and enjoy home-grown fruits. For further learning, consider watching related videos on plant propagation to enhance your gardening skills. Happy grafting!