Mango tree grafting can be done at various stages of the plant’s growth. The ideal age for grafting mangoes is usually between one and two years old. At this stage, the plant is still young and has the ability to adapt to the grafting process more easily. However, it is also possible to graft mangoes on older trees, commonly referred to as the mother plant.
Grafting on a one or two-year-old mango plant is often preferred because these plants are still relatively small and easier to handle. The process involves selecting a suitable scion, which is a small branch or bud from a desired mango variety that you want to graft onto the rootstock of the young plant. The scion should be healthy and preferably taken from a mature mango tree that produces desirable fruits.
Once you have selected the scion, you need to make a clean, slanting cut on the stem of the young plant. This is usually done at a height of about two feet from the ground. The cut should be made at an angle to create a larger surface area for the scion to be attached. Care should be taken to ensure that the cut is smooth and not jagged, as this can affect the success of the graft.
After making the cut, the next step is to carefully insert the scion into the cut. The scion should be a perfect fit and should align with the cambium layer of the rootstock. The cambium layer is the thin, green layer just beneath the bark, which is responsible for the growth of the plant. It is important to ensure that the scion and rootstock are aligned properly to allow for successful grafting.
Once the scion is inserted, it needs to be secured in place using grafting tape or a similar material. This helps to hold the scion in position and promote the fusion of the tissues between the scion and the rootstock. It is important to apply the tape tightly but not too tightly to avoid damaging the graft.
After grafting, it is crucial to provide the grafted plant with proper care and maintenance. This includes regular watering, protecting the graft from extreme weather conditions, and providing adequate nutrients for growth. It is also essential to monitor the graft for any signs of infection or failure, and take appropriate measures to address any issues that may arise.
Mango tree grafting can be done on a one or two-year-old plant, as well as on older trees known as the mother plant. The age of the plant affects the ease of handling, but with proper technique and care, successful grafting can be achieved at any age.
