As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can tell you that there are several ways to determine if a tree has been grafted. Grafting is a common practice in horticulture, where a scion (the desired plant) is joined to a rootstock (a compatible plant) to create a hybrid tree with desirable traits. Here are some telltale signs to look for when trying to identify a grafted tree:
1. Obvious Scar: One of the most apparent indications of grafting is an evident scar where the rootstock and scion were joined. This scar will be located near the base of the tree or along the trunk. It may appear as a slightly raised or swollen area, often with a noticeable color difference.
2. Bumpy Texture: The area where the graft was made can sometimes have a different texture than the rest of the tree. It may feel slightly rough or have small bumps or ridges. These irregularities can be a result of the healing process after grafting.
3. Change in Bark Appearance: Grafted trees may exhibit variations in the appearance of their bark. The bark above the graft union might be different in color, texture, or pattern compared to the bark below. This contrast can be quite noticeable, especially in mature trees.
4. Suckers or Water Sprouts: Another indication of grafting is the presence of suckers or water sprouts. These are vigorous shoots that grow from the rootstock below the graft union. They tend to grow more vigorously than the scion’s branches and can often be seen emerging from the base of the tree or along the trunk.
5. Different Growth Habits: Grafted trees may display different growth habits depending on the rootstock used. For instance, if a weeping cherry scion is grafted onto an upright rootstock, you may notice a distinctive change in the growth pattern. The weeping branches will emerge from the trunk just below the graft union, creating a noticeable contrast in the tree’s form.
6. Different Foliage or Flowers: In some cases, the scion and rootstock may have different foliage or flower characteristics. For example, if a scion with variegated leaves is grafted onto a rootstock with plain green leaves, you may observe a clear distinction between the two types of foliage. Similarly, the flowers on a grafted tree may exhibit variations in color, size, or shape.
7. Knowledge of Commonly Grafted Trees: Familiarizing yourself with commonly grafted trees can also help you identify if a tree has been grafted. Some popular grafted trees include fruit trees like apple, pear, and citrus, as well as ornamental trees like weeping cherry, grafted conifers, and rose bushes.
It’s important to note that not all trees are grafted, and some trees may have natural variations or anomalies that can resemble grafting scars. However, by observing these signs collectively and considering the overall characteristics of the tree, you can usually determine if it has been grafted.
In my experience, I have come across many grafted trees while working in gardens and nurseries. The scars left by grafting can vary in appearance, depending on the age and healing process of the tree. Sometimes, the scar is still quite pronounced, while in other cases, it may have partially healed and become less noticeable. It’s fascinating to see how grafting can create new and unique plant varieties, but it’s also essential to be able to identify and understand the signs of grafting in trees.
