Grafting is a method of asexual reproduction of trees and shrubs. It is a process of fusing together the stock plant and the scion plant. The stock tree is chosen for its roots and the scion is chosen for its flowers or fruits.

The scion contains the genes that you want to be reproduced by the stock plant. Budding, awl, veneer, cleft and stub are all different types of grafting.

The most common citrus tree grafting style is bud grafting or budding. This is also a good type of graft for beginning growers. The first step in bud grafting is to choose your scion and stock trees. Be sure to use sturdy, healthy trees. The basic procedure is to cut a bud and some bark from the scion tree and then insert it beneath the bark of the stock tree.

Dwarf Orange

The best period for collecting the bud wood or donor wood is between April and November. Collect 8-12 in. lengths of budded twigs from the scion tree but be sure not to cut the most recent growth. The bud wood should be grafted as soon as possible but can be stored for up to three months in the freezer if necessary.

There are different bud grafting styles including shield budding, patch, double shield, flute and chip budding. A common choice for citrus tree grafting is the inverted T. If you chose the T-graft style, your next step is to cut an upside down T into the bark of your stock tree a few inches above the soil line. Then take one of your buds and insert it under the cuts in the bark and wrap with bud tape several times. The bud tape should be removed within 30 days.

Be sure to monitor the graft to ensure that the union is successful and that the bud begins to grow.