Hobby gardeners and experts expand the pleasurable properties of plums by refining. We offer an overview of the main advantages as well as the procedure of a method. Receive a practical guide.
Three golden benefits
When refining, the combination of different types brings significant advantages:
- increase yield
- make the tree more resilient
- faster growth
In addition, new plum variations are created during this process. These also change essential properties of the fruit.
Various methods:
- goatsfoot finishing
- copulation
- oculation
- refine behind the bark
Copulation: Breed easily and safely
This popular method takes place during the growing break in late winter. However, it is only used if the scion and the base are similar in size: at least a finger thick. Furthermore, both should be botanically related.
Important:
For this purpose you need a sharp copulating knife. Regular regrinding is recommended. In addition, a long blade is considered advantageous.
scion:
- 10 to 15 centimeters long
- about pencil thickness
- year-long shoot
Procedure:
- Use fresh scion from the treetop
- remove all leaves (leave petioles)
- Rootstock and scion: provided with a cut of four to six centimeters (drawing)
- Cut: oblique or straight
- each receive an eye opposite the interface
In the next step you connect both pieces "bark on bark". The use of PE foil or bast is recommended.
Attention risk of infection:
Avoid touching the interface because the tree can get sick on this way.
After about three weeks, the refinement is complete. Both parts have grown together. The dried petiole simply detaches. You remove the connecting tape.
Notice:
If leaves or side shoots grow on the rootstock after grafting, these must be removed immediately. If the petiole does not fall off, this can be an indication that copulation has not been successful.
tips and tricks
Specialist shops offer refined varieties. These delight in the first year with a rich harvest. Only unrefined plums are suitable for propagation.
FT