In order to breed a healthy, phylloxera-resistant grapevine, grafting has proven itself for centuries. The uncomplicated wood-on-green method can be mastered in the hobby garden without extensive experience. We show what is important.

Preparation of rootstock and scion

In Germany, American vines are generally used as the rootstock because they have proven to be extremely resistant to the dangerous phylloxera. As part of the refinement using the wood-on-green technique, both parts are connected to each other by grafting. The following preparatory work plays a central role in the successful course:

  • cut back the root stock vigorously in February in order to lure out many strong water shoots
  • Also cut the scions in February, wrap them in plastic foil and store them at 5 degrees Celsius
  • each noble shoot should have at least 2-3 buds and be healthy

Choose the new moon day to cut back the rootstock because the plant bleeds less. This measure improves the prospect of numerous vital water shooters.

Skilfully refining vines - this is how the wood comes to the green

From the end of May to June 20th the time window is open for the finishing work. The water shooters are now about 130 centimeters tall and ready. The scions are unpacked and placed in water to soak. How to do it right:

  • shorten selected water shoots to the fourth leaf from the bottom
  • Make a straight cut on the scion below one eye with the grafting knife at a 20-degree angle
  • then do the same on the opposite side to create a wedge
  • Cut the peg of the pad in the middle deep enough for the wedge to fit in
  • Firmly wrap the junction between the base and scion with Roman tape

While the grafts busily sprout in the following weeks, all wild shoots on the rootstock are consistently broken out. Depending on their growth, the shoots are fixed to a trellis. The normal pruning takes place next February, so that the first flowering can be expected in the year after grafting.

tips and tricks

The hybrid vine 'Selection Oppenheim 4' (SO4) has made a good name for itself as a base for grafting vines in hobby gardens. It has an excellent affinity to all well-known noble varieties and scores with a stable root system. It not only keeps phylloxera at bay, but also proves to be resistant to powdery mildew.

GTH

Category:

Vegetable garden