Steps for Side Grafting

The side graft is a relatively simple method of grafting that is appropriate for trees or plants with a stock branch diameter of about 1 to 2 inches. As a general rule, side grafting is used on a branch that is too small to use a cleft graft, but too large for the whip graft. Side grafting is most effective if done during the late winter or early spring, before new growth has begun for the year.

• 1

  Select a scion that is about 3 inches long and contains at least two buds.

• 2

  Whittle one end of the scion into a wedge shape. Cut off the bark higher on one side than the other, but no longer than 1 inch. The side with more bark will be thicker.

• 3

  Prepare the stock by making a slanting cut on a smooth area near the base of the branch. The cut should angle in a downward direction and extend about half-way through the branch.

• 4

  Open the cut by grabbing the top of it and pulling outwards.

• 5

  Insert the scion into the cut with the thicker side facing the interior of the stock branch. Release the top of the cut. The scion should be held into place on its own, so it does not need to be secured.

• 6

  Cut off the stock branch about 5 inches above where the graft is placed. Remove any other lateral branches or twigs that might impede the growth of the graft, and wax all cut surfaces.

• 7

  Cut the stock branch closer to the graft after several weeks have passed and the scion has begun to grow. Wax the new cut.